MCLA’s work is grounded in one core commitment: expanding access to meaningful, effective dispute resolution for individuals, families, and communities. As we move into 2026, that commitment continues to guide how we serve the public, support legal professionals, and strengthen the mediation field.

The initiatives below reflect opportunities for collaboration in the year ahead. Each one is designed to support access to justice, promote thoughtful case management, and deepen engagement across our mediation community.

Soon MCLA will be accepting cases for community disputes from conflicts involving neighbors, pets, education, consumers, services, and online marketplace transactions. The new program will feature a community-oriented fee schedule serviced by our team of thoughtful community justice mediators.

Leading Voices

Together, Lisa Klerman (USC Gould School of Law) & Devin Tucker (MCLA) are building stronger bridges between academic training and real-world experience with this mentorship opportunity.

Hands-On Learning with Experienced Mentors

USC Mediation Clinic students are paired with MCLA panel mediators who:

• Are experienced across employment, probate, injury, real estate, and business disputes
• Offer live case shadowing opportunities

Provide mentorship, supervision, and guided learning through every stage of a mediation

A Model for the Future of Mediation

By investing in education, mentorship, and live practice, this collaboration sets a model for the future of mediation and the next generation of conflict resolution leaders.

Join us for MCLA’s Second Annual Dinner, a special evening dedicated to community, collaboration, and the impact of mediation

with special keynote speaker Presiding Judge Sergio C. Tapia II and honorees Hon. Huey P. Cotton, Nancy Bullock, and Kerry Bigornia.

February 26, 2026, 6:00pm Hosted Reception | 7:00pm Dinner

City Club Los Angeles, 555 Flower St 51st Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071