Alternative Dispute Resolution
Sep. 16, 2025
Bilingual mediation: More than words
Bilingual mediators who speak both the language and culture of non-English-speaking parties can build trust, reduce misunderstandings, streamline proceedings, and save time and money in legal disputes where interpreters alone often fall short.
Patricia Garcia
Neutral
Signature Resolution
University of San Diego School of Law
Patricia Garcia is a neutral with Signature Resolution who has extensive trial and family law expertise. She served as a child support commissioner and then as a family law judge on the San Diego Superior Court, in which role she presided over complex family law trials, settlement conferences and international custody disputes. As a bilingual mediator, she guides Spanish-speaking parties who would otherwise require the services of a translator.
Dalila Corral Lyons
Neutral and Judge (ret.)
Signature Resolution
UC Berkeley, Boalt Hall School of Law
When individuals seek relief through the legal system -- talking
with lawyers, filling out forms, answering questions - the process can be both
frightening and overwhelming. Imagine how much more frightening it can be for
parties who don't speak or understand English.
In the courtroom and in other forums, they must rely on interpreters to translate what they sa...
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