Committees
TMS strongly encourages Members to actively participate by joining a Committee, as well as by contributing knowledge and resources in other ways. To join a Committee, contact the Committee Chair or Committee member. TMS also actively encourages members to present on a topic of interest.
Mentorship Committee
The mission of the TMS Mentor Program is to match seasoned mediators who have committed to share their knowledge and expertise with newer members of the profession, or with those thinking about becoming mediators. The program is designed so that, for a one-year period, a new or would-be mediator has a standing relationship with an experienced mediator. Mentors are asked to offer mediation shadowing opportunities to mentees, contingent upon the permission of the mediation participants, all the while respecting strict mediation confidentiality. Mentors are also asked to be available for at least two one-hour video conference or in-person meetings with mentees during the period of the mentorship.
Program Committee
The Program Committee organizes regular in-person and virtual programs on mediation skills, practice development, and relevant substantive law. Many of our programs provide MCLE credit. Past programs include mediating property disputes, drafting mediation agreements, and the benefits and pitfalls of virtual mediation.
Membership Committee
The Membership Committee promotes interest in TMS membership, responds to membership applications, and oversees membership renewals.
Education Committee
The Education Committee sponsors a biennial, half-day or full-day program on a topic of interest open to members and the community at large. The 2023 program explores unconscious assumptions and bias in mediation. Speakers include former California Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye and highly-experienced litigators and mediators.
Social Committee
The Social Committee organizes memorable in-person and virtual dinner events throughout the year. Members are encouraged to invite non-member guests. Our dinners frequently include a presentation on a cutting-edge topic of interest.
Each January, TMS honors the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday with a dinner and presentation promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. For example, in January 2023, Justice Martin Jenkins of the California Supreme Court and Justice Teri Jackson of the First District Court of Appeal spoke at our MLK Jr. event about California’s innovative judicial mentorship program.
The Social Committee also organizes informal gatherings for members to socialize and get to know each other.