“The settlement was very beneficial to the parties and, in my opinion, constituted a personal triumph for Mr. Sorensen.”
“I commend you for your dedication, demeanor and persistence. You are a true professional with a special talent for this line of work.”
“. . . you are the first mediator I have met in this area who has taken your art to its highest level.”
Energetic. Empathetic. Effective. These are words frequently used to describe Lol Sorensen as a mediator. To every case, Lol brings sincerity, creativity and a passion for resolving the dispute. Lol’s ability genuinely to connect with parties, their counsel and insurance adjusters sets him apart from many mediators. He puts parties at ease, sees their viewpoints, and is able to communicate well with people on all sides of a dispute.
In addition to his “people” and “process” skills, Lol brings a wealth of legal experience to his mediation practice. He was a successful civil litigator for 25 years, having tried dozens of high-stakes commercial, probate, and real estate matters. In recognition of his level of achievement, Lol received a Martindale-Hubbell “AV rating,” which is reserved for lawyers who demonstrate the “highest level of professional excellence and integrity.” His reputation for professionalism and civility led to his selection in 2005 as President of the William L. Gordon Inn of Court, the Santa Barbara chapter of a national organization of judges and lawyers devoted to maintaining the highest standards in the practice of law. Lol’s knowledge of the law, experience with judges and juries, and practical insights into the workings of litigated matters add immensely to his effectiveness as a mediator.
More than 35 years ago, before becoming a lawyer, Lol was a social worker who was described by colleagues as a “born diplomat.” As a lawyer, he refined this innate talent and began his study of mediation and negotiation skills in the late 1980’s. In 1991, he became a settlement master in the Superior Court and he was certified as a mediator in 2002.
Although he tried dozens of cases, Lol’s first instinct as a litigator was to seek ways to bring the parties together rather than drive them apart. He is quickly able to perceive the interests that underlie the positions of the parties and has a gift for finding creative ways to resolve disputes. He has the temperament and bearing needed to calm passions and inspire the parties to collaborate. He knows how to structure settlements and close deals. It is no wonder why Lol is singled out as an unusually effective mediator.
Lol also serves as an arbitrator, special master, or referee in litigated matters. He is dedicated to making the correct decision on the law and the facts and to giving every party an opportunity to be fully heard.
Lol has written articles for legal publications and frequently lectures in continuing education programs regarding mediation, the art of persuasion, and negotiation skills.
