Profile

Irene Takahashi is widely recognized as one of the Bay Area’s leading mediators. Building on a solid foundation of trial experience, she adds the insights gained while serving as a trial judge. She has tried scores of criminal and civil cases both bench and jury. She has wide experience in a range of civil disputes, involving, among others, personal injury, employment, landlord-tenant, and public and private entity liability.

Beyond her widely acknowledged legal acumen, she has a deserved reputation for being able to identify and facilitate the resolution of the complex personal concerns that often form the most formidable barriers to settlements. Rather than practicing a set pattern of mediation, she has a style that allows her to ‘shift gears’ as conditions develop and as unforeseen difficulties arise. Her adaptability gives the parties the maximum opportunity for resolution. As one attorney put it, “Irene’s perceptive instincts made the difference.”

Mediations can be costly and stressful, Ms. Takahashi is known to work to minimize both those issues. She knows most cases resolve. She is persistent and works with the parties before, during and with follow-up to provide a successful resolution tailored to the individual case.

Ms. Takahashi, as reported by many attorneys, is a wise, empathetic, approachable and hard-working mediator. Both litigants and litigators agree that she listens carefully, demonstrates human concern with a dignity that inspires confidence, and provides legal and practical guidance of substantial value. As a result, many counsel have sought her help on multiple cases. Consistently she facilitates prompt, fair and lasting resolutions in the most difficult mediations.