Friday, September 19, 2025
8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m ET
In-person Event
Saint John’s Resort
44045 Five Mile Road
Plymouth, MI 48170
The Alternative Dispute Resolution Section of the State Bar of Michigan’s Annual Conference offers ADR practitioners and members of the judiciary the opportunity to hear from industry leaders on emerging topics and trends shaping the field.
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP attorney Alex Thibodeau will co-present the session “What Can Mediators Learn from the Small Talk Movement” with Dale Ann Iverson of JustMediation PLC. The discussion will explore what research and personal experiences reveal about the role of “small talk” in mediation, with a focus on being intentional about even the smallest, most intuitive actions in the process.
Attendees will:
- Gain exposure to research on negotiation and how it can inspire mediation practice.
- Reflect on the experiences of the presenters and participants with small talk in real-world mediation, including the risks and rewards.
- Take part in breakout sessions to practice small talk techniques.
At Warner, Thibodeau focuses his practice on business law and litigation, representing clients in construction, real estate, insurance, commercial disputes, and emerging technologies. He provides strategic and tactical guidance to clients navigating high-stakes disputes.
The Friday, Sept. 19, conference will be held at Saint John’s Resort in Plymouth. The conference also includes advanced mediation training and networking opportunities. A cocktail reception and the ADR Annual Awards program will follow the day’s sessions. For more information, please click here.
