The Bellingham Business Journal

In December, Michael Kleps, owner of Kleps Law Office located at 114 W. Magnolia St. Suite 444, completed a year-long, mediation practicum through the Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center. He said he plans to use his certification mainly to volunteer as a mediator though the center, but he also sees potential for greater use of mediation in probate and guardianship disputes.

“Litigation can be toxic where long-term relationships are involved,” Kleps said. “Whether the conflict involves family members, business partners or neighbors, parties who achieve a mediated resolution often find greater satisfaction.”

Kleps volunteers for Whatcom Hospice and also serves on the board of directors for the Whatcom Family and Community Network, and the Northwest Washington Estate Planning Council.