Mediator Melissa Avila, Esq.

I am a high-impact neutral specializing in the resolution of complex employment and civil litigation. Drawing on over 13 years of trial experience in courts across California and the Courts of Appeal, I bring a Pragmatic, Trial-Ready Perspective to every mediation.

I understand that behind every legal dispute is a need for a business-minded solution. My goal is to move parties past the impasse by providing the Rigorous Reality Testing necessary to navigate high-conflict matters with clarity and efficiency.

Download my CV here

Flat Fee: $3,500 (Half-Day) / $6,000 (Full-Day)

Expertise & Vetted Credibility

  • Trained at the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution (Pepperdine Law).

  • Settlement Officer for Resolve Law Los Angeles.

  • Panel Mediator for Santa Barbara CADRe and MVP.

FORMAL ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION TRAINING:

“Mediating the Litigated Case,” a 42-hour program offered by the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University School of Law

PRACTICE AREAS

FEHA & Statutory Claims

I specialize in the resolution of sensitive and fact-intensive disputes involving:

  • Discrimination & Harassment (Protected categories under FEHA)

  • Whistleblower & Labor Code Retaliation

  • Wrongful Termination in Violation of Public Policy

  • Reasonable Accommodation & Interactive Process Failures

  • CFRA / FMLA Leave Disputes

Wage, Hour & Representative Actions

I bring extensive trial experience to the resolution of high-stakes compensation disputes, including:

  • PAGA & Class Action Representative Claims

  • Meal & Rest Break Compliance

  • Regular Rate & Overtime Miscalculations

  • Exempt vs. Non-Exempt Misclassification

  • Independent Contractor (AB 5) Analysis

Bridging the Gap

My deep roots in Plaintiff-side advocacy allow me to provide the rigorous reality-testing and expectation management required to bridge the gap. I am committed to delivering results and resolution for both sides of the table.

Full and Half Day Mediations

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email melissa@avilamediation.com

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Mediation Rates

Half Day

$3,500

Full Day

$6,000

Testimonials

What People Are Saying About Melissa Avila, Esq.

“Melissa is a strong litigator with extensive experience on both plaintiff and defense sides which gives her unique perspective and the ability to successfully negotiate. it has been a pleasure to work with her.”

- Defense Side Employment Law Attorney

“Her sharp legal acumen and unwavering professionalism, makes her an exceptional attorney both in and outside the courtroom. I would recommend Melissa without hesitation.”

- Plaintiff Side Employment Law Attorney

“Melissa brought a fresh perspective to the MSC. She’s an effective negotiator and tenacious mediator.”

- Mediator and Arbitrator with ADR in Los Angeles