Cultural Competency in Mediation
Date: Jun 22, 2026 9:00 a.m. – 10:40 a.m.
Location: Online
Member Price: $99.00
Non-Member Price: $125.00
Section Price: $0.00
Areas of Law: Diversity
Earn up to 2 credits, including 2.0 in Diversity! (More Information)
Keynote
Moderator
- Jeffrey Fiorello, Esq.
- Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann Knopf LLP, Saddle Brook
Presenters
- Hon. Marcia Silva JSC, Ret.
- Silva & Stahl, LLC
- Jason Addesso
- Managing Partner and Shareholder, Veritas Forensic Group, Red Bank
- Alexandra Coglianese, Esq.
- Bremer Buckner, LLC, Hackensack
- Candice L. Drisgula, Esq.
- Drisgula Divorce & Family Law, Wayne
- Shireen B. Meistrich, LCSW
- Collaborative Divorce Coach, Fair Lawn
Did you miss the Dec. 31 deadline and still need diversity credits? Join us for this live 2.0 diversity credit webinar!
Successful mediation depends on more than legal analysis and negotiation strategy. One often overlooked factor that can significantly influence outcomes is cultural competency. Whether handling a complex commercial dispute or a sensitive custody matter, cultural values, traditions, and expectations can shape communication, decision-making, and perceptions of fairness throughout the mediation process.
Culture encompasses the values, norms, and practices that influence how individuals respond to conflict and navigate interpersonal relationships. Because disputes are often driven as much by human dynamics as by legal issues, understanding the cultural perspectives of the parties involved can be essential to achieving meaningful and lasting resolutions. By moving beyond surface-level positions to identify underlying interests, motivations, and needs, attorneys and mediators can foster more productive negotiations and create pathways toward agreement.
Join Jeffrey Fiorello and a distinguished panel of experienced dispute resolution professionals for an engaging discussion on the critical role cultural competency plays in mediation. The program will explore key cultural considerations attorneys and neutrals should recognize when representing clients or facilitating negotiations.
Participants will gain practical insight into:
- How cultural differences influence mediation dynamics and decision-making
- Strategies for recognizing and navigating cultural norms and expectations
- Techniques for improving communication and reducing barriers to resolution
- Best practices for promoting equitable and effective outcomes in mediation
Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how cultural awareness can strengthen advocacy, improve negotiations, and enhance the likelihood of successful resolution.
Important Information About Our Events, Meetings, and More:
To secure your spot and receive important updates about our events, meetings, and other gatherings, such as schedule changes, remember to register in advance.
Digital Materials & Environmental Commitment: As part of our commitment to environmental sustainability, unless otherwise noted, all seminar materials are provided as digital downloads. You can access these materials through:
- The “My Links” section at the top of our website for in-person or online events
- Or, for online programs, the event access link included in your joining instructions
Cancellation and Refund Policy:
If you need to cancel your registration and are not transferring to another program or date, please submit a written request to us at least three business days before the event, meeting, or gathering. You will receive a refund minus a $20.00 cancellation fee. No refunds or registration changes will be issued within three business days of the event, meeting, or gathering.
Professional Conduct:
All attendees and participants are expected to conduct themselves professionally and treat others with respect at NJSBA events, meetings, and gatherings. This includes courteous communication, respecting perspectives, and creating a welcoming environment for all. Failure to adhere to this policy may result in removal from the event.
Stay Informed:
Registered participants will be notified of any schedule changes. For updates regarding inclement weather, please check your email or visit NJSBA.com.
Media Consent:
By participating in our events, meetings, or other gatherings, you agree to be photographed and/or recorded. Additionally, all media content captured during these gatherings will become the property of NJSBA. This content, including your image and name, may be used in our future promotional materials without additional consent or compensation.
Scholarship & Financial Assistance Policy:
Read our Scholarship & Financial Assistance Policy and submit an Application here: https://njsba.com/njicle/cle-programs/scholarship/