MCLA's Executive Director Bennett Root Jr draws on entrepreneurial background
ADR Profile by Shane Nelson
“How can we find a win-win where both sides walk away
with what matters most?”
This guiding question is the foundation of Bennett Root’s approach to mediation and is a central theme in his recent ADR profile with Daily Journal.
The article follows Ben’s path from 25 years as a litigator to executive roles as a CEO and chief legal officer, and ultimately to his work as a full-time neutral. It highlights a career shaped by a fundamental commitment to continued understanding. As Ben shares, “I wanted to make sure I was up to date,” reflecting the mindset that continues to inform his work today. Drawing on a wide range of subject matter, including business, employment, personal injury, real estate, and intellectual property, Ben approaches each dispute with a focus on flexibility. The profile emphasizes his belief that no two cases are the same, and that effective mediation requires designing a process that fits the specific needs of the parties involved.
His combined experience in both legal and business settings allows him to bring a practical, solutions-oriented perspective to the table. By understanding not just the legal issues, but the underlying priorities driving each side, Ben works to create outcomes that are both compassionate and sustainable.
We invite you to read the full profile to learn more about Ben’s career, his approach to dispute resolution, and the perspective he brings to every matter.
MCLA Mediators honored at LASC ADR Recognition Ceremony
Our team had the honor of attending the LASC ADR Recognition Ceremony this past Wednesday, where many of our incredible mediators, including our Executive Director, were recognized for their dedication and impact.
We’re proud to be part of such a talented and committed community.
Welcome to the MCLA Panel!
We’re excited to welcome some new faces to MCLA. Each brings their own perspective and experience to the work, and we’re looking forward to the impact they’ll have within our community.
Jen Lefton
Jen Lofton is a highly experienced attorney in complex and contested litigation cases in areas of probate, trust, conservator, and financial elder abuse. She is a highly effective resource to families and older adults.
Mark Ameli
Mr. Ameli is a recognized and respected mediator and an arbitrator for over 25 years. He has been described in print as an “effective mediator” who has “a wealth of knowledge” and is “quick and gets to the point”.
Michael Fields
For nearly 35 years, Michael Fields has served as a mediator or arbitrator, originally as an adjunct to his personal injury trial practice. Since retiring from his trial practice in 2015, Michael’s services have expanded to include discovery disputes.
More than Mediation for Los Angeles and beyond...
A Low-Cost ADR Option for all of California
What began as a court-supported mediation program has grown into a broader ADR resource serving clients across California. MCLA now offers mediation, probate, family law, and arbitration services, all designed to remain accessible while maintaining a high standard of neutrals.
With a panel licensed throughout the state and services delivered remotely, we are increasingly resolving matters beyond Los Angeles. As our programs expand, our focus remains the same: efficient, affordable dispute resolution for individuals, families, businesses, and the legal community.
Adversary to Architect: Civility-Based Mediation Practices
Presented by Devin Tucker, Jennifer Terando, and Lori Dobrin
Informative, concise and well presented!
-Melinda Feldman, Mediator
Building on the idea that effective mediation requires more than positional advocacy, Adversary to Architect: Civility-Based Mediation Practices offered a practical framework for shifting how attorneys and mediators approach negotiation.
Moderated by Devin Tucker and featuring Jennifer Terando and Lori Dobrin, the program focused on how civility, preparation, and strategic communication can influence outcomes and move parties toward resolution, even working on reframing the most commonly heard less-than-friendly comments from parties.
MCLE On-Demand Library Coming Soon!
Earn Credits with Self-Paced Recordings of our Most Insightful Webinars from Legal and Mediation Experts!
John Derrick
John Derrick is a full-time mediator and arbitrator handling cases at all stages of the litigation timeline throughout Southern California and beyond. He frequently writes and lectures on ADR topics.
John Derrick has a background in law and business. A dual national who came to the US from the UK over 30 years ago, he is naturally skilled at helping people from all sorts of backgrounds resolve a wide variety of disputes that previously proved intractable.
John is by character diplomatic and has a calm, civil demeanor. He can see issues from different perspectives. He is empathetic and can establish rapport with a wide range of people. He is both patient and persistent. He listens. But when necessary, he can tell people things they may not want to hear.
John’s ADR practice draws in part on his experience over 20 years as an accomplished appellate lawyer. Before entering the legal profession, he co-founded, operated, and eventually sold a specialized information publishing business.
John — wearing bib number 13567 — running the 2026 Taipei Half Marathon.