Lol Sorensen
Attorney/Mediator

“The settlement was very beneficial to the parties and, in my opinion, constituted a personal triumph for Mr. Sorensen.”

“I commend you for your dedication, demeanor and persistence. You are a true professional with a special talent for this line of work.”

“. . . you are the first mediator I have met in this area that has taken your art to its highest level.”

Energetic. Empathetic. Effective. These are words frequently used to describe Lol Sorensen as a mediator. To every case, Lol brings sincerity, creativity and a passion for resolving the dispute. Lol’s ability genuinely to connect with parties, their counsel and insurance adjusters sets him apart from many mediators. He puts people at ease, sees their viewpoints, and is able to communicate well with people on all sides of a dispute.

In addition to his inherent “people” and “process” skills, Lol brings a wealth of legal experience to his mediation practice. Lol was a successful civil litigator for more than 25 years handling complex commercial, probate, real estate, and personal injury matters, including many in which millions of dollars were at stake. Along the way, Lol achieved a Martindale-Hubbell “AV rating,” which is reserved for lawyers who demonstrate the “highest level of professional excellence and integrity.” His reputation for professionalism and civility led to his selection in 2005 as President of the William L. Gordon Inn of Court, the Santa Barbara chapter of a national organization of judges and lawyers devoted to maintaining the highest standards in the practice of law. Lol’s knowledge of the law, experience with judges and juries, and practical insights into the workings of litigated matters add immensely to his effectiveness as a mediator.

Nearly 30 years ago, before becoming a lawyer, Lol was a social worker who was described by colleagues as a “born diplomat.” As a lawyer, he refined this innate talent and began his study of mediation and negotiation skills in the late 1980’s. In 1991, he became a settlement master in the Superior Court and he was certified as a mediator in 2002.  

Although he tried dozens of cases in his career, Lol’s first instinct as a litigator was always to seek ways to bring the parties together rather than drive them apart. He is quickly able to perceive the interests that underlie the positions of the parties and has a gift for finding creative ways to resolve disputes. He has the temperament and bearing needed to calm passions and inspire the parties to collaborate. He knows how to close deals and structure settlements. 

It is no wonder why Lol has been recognized as an unusually effective mediator.

Lol also frequently serves as an arbitrator, special master, or referee in litigated matters.

[Click here for a printable CV.]