David S. DeLugas, Esq.

Professionals  

David DeLugas specializes in guiding parties to their agreement, to their resolution, and to their solution, which requires more than being a good listener. It requires an understanding of what actually is motivating each party and recognizing the priorities for each party. David has over 30 years of legal experience which allows him to assist in the crafting of the agreement, resolution and solution that the parties will likely reach in order to address both their needs and their wants!   David has a feel for when being soft will be most effective and when he must be "up front" and blunt!  

Our Process  

With an "Outside The Box" approach to mediation, we pull, push and steady parties as needed during their journey toward the agreement that frees them from the uncertainty, the emotional cost, and the financial burden that comes with litigation and bring them to a place where they are at peace with the process and with the result and, as well, are greatly appreciative of the steady counsel provided by their attorneys. We make the attorneys look good while facilitating an agreement between or among parties who, more often than not, are not just glad the case is over, but are genuinely pleased with the outcome! And this is also true not just of the parties, but, in those disputes in which they are involved, of the corporate representatives and claims adjusters!  

Credentials  

 B.A., Duke University - 1976, J.D., U. North Carolina-Chapel Hill - 1981. Georgia ODR Registered Neutral # 1919, Member: State Bars of Georgia (admitted 1984), Missouri* (admitted 1981), and Illinois* (admitted 1982) (*inactive), ADR Section and Family Law Section of the Georgia Bar, Association for Conflict Resolution - Georgia Chapter, Georgia Mediators Association, Parenting Coordinator

Mediation  

In mediation, a neutral third party (called the "mediator") facilitates a discussion between the parties and their attorneys, and keeps them focused on options to resolve any and all disputes. Initially, the parties meet together with the neutral to discuss each party's perspective of the disputes. The neutral assists in settlement communications and negotiations, often meeting with the parties separately and privately, but each party always retains the decision-making power. Any resolution comes from the parties and, therefore, that resolution, however cleverly crafted, must meet their needs and interests. Mediation produces a voluntary win-win solution. The parties are free to pursue litigation if their case is not resolved in mediation.  

Arbitration  

In arbitration, a neutral third party (called the "arbitrator") conducts an informal trial or hearing in which the parties and their attorneys present written and oral evidence. The rules of evidence can be relaxed, allowing the parties more freedom in presenting their positions and expressing their perspectives. After the hearing, the arbitrator renders a decision. If requested, the decision will include an opinion which will enable the parties to understand the reasons for the decision and, therefore, to accept it as a resolution of the dispute. When the parties have agreed to "binding arbitration," the arbitrator's decision is final and binding and can be enforced through the courts. When the parties have agreed to "non-binding arbitration," often done in order to learn what decision might be the outcome if a court decision is later rendered, the arbitrator's decision usually will lead to a settlement agreement without further litigation.  

Our Neutrals  

Our network of registered neutrals are here when it is convenient for your clients and for you. We are available when you need us most, including evenings, 6 days each week. We settle cases, even the most difficult cases.  

Terms & Conditions  

 o Hourly rate is $240/hour

 o 2 hour minimum  

 o $240 cancellation fee if cancelled within 48 hours  

 o Payment due upon conclusion or the attorneys must pay within 10 days

 o No charge for travel within Metro Atlanta