

Assisting the resolution of disputes with current courtroom perspective.

Four decades of Trial Experience – including active litigation through 2025
Mike Welch brings a current courtroom perspective to mediation and case evaluation, helping counsel realistically assess litigation risk and identify practical paths toward resolution.
Unlike many seasoned neutrals, Mike remained actively trying cases through October 2025. His most recent jury trial reflects today's courtroom dynamics, juror expectations, and litigation risks, enabling him to evaluate cases based on how today's judges and juries are likely to view them.
Over four decades, Mike has participated in more than 500 mediations and 100 arbitrations while representing clients in a broad range of complex civil disputes. He has tried more than 75 jury trials to verdict in state and federal courts and has served as a court-appointed settlement neutral in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.
Elected to the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) in 2003, Mike is recognized by his peers for excellence in trial advocacy, professionalism, and civility. Attorneys value his preparation, balanced perspective, and candid case assessments that help parties make informed decisions and achieve durable resolutions.

45 Years
Trial Experience
500+
Mediations
100+
Civil Arbitrations
75+ Trials
State and Federal Jury Trials

I had the privilege of trying a contentious case against Mike Welch. He was a gentleman and professional both before, during and after trial. Mike's extensive trial background, ability to evaluate cases, and rapport with counsel on both sides makes him a great mediator.
Michael Rix, Esq.
Vaziri Law LLP
I have known Mike Welch as a recurring adversary over the past fifteen years. In that time I have found him to be that rare combination of prepared, courteous, and kind. While remaining an effective opponent, he always retained enough sense of humor to make litigating against him an enjoyable endeavor. I was delighted to hear that he has decided to start a mediation practice, where I anticipate he will be quite effective. I look forward to adding him to our firm's list of approved mediators.
Louis Abronson
Abronson Law Offices
Education

University of California, Berkeley CA
BA Philosophy, 1976

Pepperdine School of Law, Malibu CA
Juris Doctor (J.D.), 1979
Litigation Experience
Personal Injury
Products Liability
Landlord Tenant Disputes
Homeowner's Liability
Water Rights
Mediation Fee Schedule
Half Day Rate
$1,800
per booking and billed pro-rata
Includes preparation,
up to three hours session time and post-session follow up as requested.
Full Day Rate
$3,600
per booking and billed pro-rata
Includes preparation,
up to six hours session time and post-session follow up as requested.
No administration fee. No fee for cancellation or postponement (fee fully refundable up to day of session). Additional session time billed at $360/hr.
Contact
Fill out the form here or call us directly at (209) 256-7033.