Steve Sepassi
Mediator
Steven M. Sepassi, Esq. brings more than 28 years of litigation and negotiation experience to his work as a neutral. Known for his unwavering integrity, analytical mindset, and down-to-earth demeanor, Mr. Sepassi is regarded as a patient, insightful, and pragmatic mediator and arbitrator who earns trust quickly and guides parties toward durable resolution.
His transition to dispute resolution was a natural evolution rooted in his values: a belief in dignity, fairness, and clarity. After a successful litigation career, Mr. Sepassi now dedicates his full attention to helping others resolve conflicts with empathy and precision.
Mr. Sepassi began his career not in law, but in aerospace. A graduate of the University of Missouri
and the University of Southern California, he worked as a software engineer at Rockwell
International, supporting NASA’s Space Shuttle and Space Station programs. His technical
background sharpened his attention to detail and problem-solving instincts—skills that
continue to serve him today as he dissects facts, challenges assumptions, and builds practical
paths forward for parties in conflict.
His interest in human connection ultimately led him to pursue a law degree while raising a
family and managing a real estate and mortgage business. Upon graduating law school, he
launched his own legal practice and later co-founded Sepassi & Tarighati LLP, where he
represented both plaintiffs and insured defendants—giving him a uniquely balanced
perspective that informs his work as a neutral.
Mr. Sepassi joined ADR Services, Inc. in 2023 and quickly became known for his steady presence
and evaluative style. He has mediated and arbitrated hundreds of matters, with a particular
focus on:
• Personal Injury (including catastrophic injury, wrongful death, premises liability,
product liability and UM/UIM matters)
• Real Estate (including fraud, buyer/seller, habitability, HOA conflicts, and landlord-
tenant matters)
• School Liability
• Business and Commercial Disputes
Mr. Sepassi approaches every matter with patience and deep respect for all involved. Drawing
on decades of litigation and leadership experience, he brings both structure and empathy to the
mediation process—guiding parties from conflict to resolution with confidence and care.
His calm, methodical presence helps de-escalate tension and build trust, even in emotionally
charged or high-stakes matters. Attorneys consistently praise Mr. Sepassi for his deep listening,
strategic insight, and steady hand. His thoughtful preparation, tailored communication, and
post-session follow-up have made him a highly effective and trusted neutral.
EDUCATION
• J.D., Southwestern University School of Law, Los Angeles, CA
• E.D., University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
• M.S., University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
• B.S., University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
HONORS AND AWARDS
• Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition, 2023
• President’s Award, San Fernando Valley Bar Association, 2024
• Certificate of Appreciation, Los Angeles Superior Court, 2025
• Certificate of Appreciation, U.S. District Court, Central District of California, 2018-2025
AFFILIATIONS & MEMBERSHIPS
• United States District Court, Central District of California, Mediator Panel
• Ventura County Superior Court, ADR Panel
• Los Angeles County Superior Court, Mediator Panel
• Los Angeles County Superior Court, Former Temporary Judge
• California Court of Appeal, 2nd Appellate District, Mediator Panel
• Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles
• Beverly Hills Bar Association
• Los Angeles County Bar Association
• San Fernando Valley Bar Association (Trustee, 2017-2023)
• Iranian American Lawyers Association (President, 2000-2001)