You stay in control
The parties shape the outcome — repairs, payment, a credit, a timeline — instead of leaving it to a judge.
Construction disputes are stressful and personal — whether you're a homeowner staring at unfinished or defective work, or a contractor who hasn't been paid. Litigation drags on for years and eats up money that should go toward fixing the problem. Mediation gets both sides to a resolution privately, faster, and for far less.
At Trials & Tech, Chris Waters serves as a neutral mediator — he doesn't represent the homeowner or the contractor. He helps both sides understand their positions and reach a practical agreement. With 25 years of legal experience and real trial work, he can pressure-test each side's claims against how they'd likely fare in court.
Instead of litigating, the parties meet — in person or over Zoom — with an impartial mediator who guides the conversation toward resolution. The mediator doesn't decide who's at fault; the parties craft their own agreement, often one that gets the work finished or the money sorted rather than just assigning blame.
The parties shape the outcome — repairs, payment, a credit, a timeline — instead of leaving it to a judge.
Construction cases can take years in court; mediation often resolves in a session or a few, so the project can move forward.
Litigation and construction experts run into tens of thousands per side. Mediation is $250/hour, typically shared by the parties, with the first 30-minute consultation free.
No public filings, no online record of the dispute.
Between a homeowner and a contractor who still need to finish the job.
Sessions by Zoom, phone, or in person, anywhere in Southern California.
Many construction contracts require arbitration. Chris can serve as the neutral arbitrator — hearing each side's evidence and making the final determination, binding or non-binding depending on what the contract provides. In California, arbitration generally follows California discovery rules, with the scope set at the outset. Arbitration hearing days are $2,000/day, with preparation at $250/hour.
We talk through the dispute and whether mediation fits.
If it's a fit, we begin.
In person, by Zoom, or by phone, as many as the matter needs.
The terms are documented in a written settlement agreement.
Because the mediator is neutral, each party is encouraged to have the agreement reviewed by their own attorney before signing.
A neutral who knows the courtroom — 25 years of experience and real trial work. Transparent pricing and online booking. Online or in person, anywhere in Southern California. Mediation or arbitration, including under your contract's clause.
If you're a homeowner and cost is the only thing standing between you and a fair resolution, ask about our pro bono mediation for those who qualify based on financial need. Every request is reviewed confidentially. Request Pro Bono Mediation →
Nothing is binding until the parties sign an agreement — then it is. If you arbitrate instead, the arbitrator makes the final determination; binding or non-binding is set by the contract.
The mediator is neutral and doesn't advise either side. You're welcome to have your own counsel involved or review the agreement before signing — it still costs far less than litigating.
Often, yes. Because the parties craft the outcome, agreements can include completing the work or a repair plan — something a court judgment usually can't deliver as cleanly.
Mediation is $250/hour (typically shared); arbitration hearing days are $2,000/day plus $250/hour for preparation; the first 30-minute consultation is free.
Yes. Mediation and private arbitration keep your dispute out of the public record.
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Book your free 30-minute consultation, or call (888) 983-9097. Let's find the faster, less expensive way through your dispute.