EMPATHY

Parties, particularly personal injury plaintiffs, need to feel not only that the mediator understands their situation but also that the mediator is looking out for their interests.  This is particularly crucial when negotiations are at their fiercest.  It is at this critical juncture that the personal relationship between the mediator and the plaintiff can be tapped to assist the plaintiff in making a thoughtful and reasonable decision regarding settlement.  Mr. Gianforti takes time before beginning settlement discussions to get to know the parties and demonstrate to them that he understands their case, what they have gone through and their need for justice.

EXPERIENCE

For four decades, Gary J. Gianforti litigated a wide variety of cases including felony criminal and civil matters.  Regarding the latter, he litigated to verdict contract, commercial, shareholder and estate disputes and successfully defended a patent infringement claim at the Federal Circuit in Washington, D.C.  As a trial attorney, Mr. Gianforti also prosecuted to verdict many personal injury matters.  His experience is not limited to the prosecution of such matters, however.  For many years, he also defended individuals and businesses through firm associations with a wide array of insurance companies.  In short, Mr. Gianforti has the experience to understand and assist all sides to a litigation in resolving their dispute.

INTELLECTUAL CURIOSITY

Mediations take time.  Mr. Gianforti understands that the very first hurdle a mediator must clear is assuring the parties and their counsel that he fully understands the facts and the issues presented in a mediation.  This requires a careful and thoughtful review of the parties’ submissions which includes reading the salient cases provided by counsel in support of their positions.  The parties deserve and get a fully engaged and thoroughly prepared mediator when using Mr. Gianforti’s services.

PERSEVERANCE

It might take hours before there is a glimmer of hope that a mediation will settle.  Often, one or more attorneys or their clients will express the opinion that further negotiations are futile.  With Mr. Gianforti, the parties get a mediator who is dogged in his approach. Simply by continuing the conversation, settlements, even in the most difficult cases, are often obtained.  When settlement does not occur at the initial session, Mr. Gianforti continues the negotiations through follow up telephone conferences or additional negotiating sessions leaving no stone unturned.