July 2025

Mediator Spotlight

We’re proud to feature Stephen H. Marcus as our Mediator Spotlight for July. A Harvard Law graduate with decades of litigation and mediation experience, Stephen brings a wealth of insight to every case he handles.

Stephen Marcus

About Stephen

Stephen H. Marcus brings decades of legal experience to his mediation practice, with a background in complex commercial litigation and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. A member of numerous state and federal mediation panels, Stephen has conducted mediations across a wide range of subjects including securities fraud, construction defects, employment claims, and bankruptcy disputes. He blends evaluative and collaborative techniques to guide parties toward practical, big-picture solutions. In addition to his private practice, he serves as a Judge Pro Tem and holds leadership roles within the Los Angeles County Bar Association.

In the interview below, Stephen shares how he approaches mediation, what he values in the process, and the practical tools he uses to help parties reach meaningful resolution.

“I try to give the parties and their attorneys the same value from the mediation experience that I sought from mediators as an attorney.”

What inspired you to become a mediator or join MCLA?

My becoming a mediator was more a matter of evolution than inspiration In 2012 at age 67 after 42 years of litigation I wanted more control over my schedule After taking the Mediating the Litigated Case course at Pepperdine I joined pro bono panels with the District and Bankruptcy Courts When Myer Sankary started MCLA in 2013 I jumped at the chance to join the panel Mediation and arbitration now make up 90 percent of my workload.

What are best practices for preparing for mediation?

I ask for the operative pleadings to understand the issues I encourage parties to submit two briefs one shared best shot brief and one confidential brief I also try to be aware of any emotional issues and ask attorneys what their clients are hoping to achieve.

What do you hope parties take away from mediation?

As an attorney I wanted the mediator to convince the other side to accept my client’s position help settle the case and provide a neutral evaluation I try to provide the same value as a mediator understand the issues and goals look for common ground and offer broader resolutions If the case doesn’t settle I give each side my neutral evaluation which often leads to settlement later.

How do you tailor your mediation style?

My style is more evaluative with collaborative suggestions when appropriate I don’t tailor my style to the parties but gear it to my personality and practices so I remain genuine and credible I do adjust the process and presentation based on the needs and personalities of the attorneys and their clients.

Interested in working with Stephen H. Marcus?

Stephen is available for mediation and arbitration through MCLA.

View his professional resume

To request his services, contact us at info@mediationla.org