Contact Us

Adele
Grunberg

Mediator/Trainer

T. 510.703.7745

After trying cases for many years, Adele started to feel that lawsuits are generally a losing proposition for everyone – except, maybe, the lawyers. After experiencing such negativity and animosity, she realized that there had to be a better way.

She left the law and went to graduate school, where she discovered a program called “Conflict Resolution.” She was instantly hooked, as she studied communication and managing conflict to improve relationships.

She has since continued to pursue this new career, one that she says is the most satisfying to her and beneficial to others.

Experience

Adele is a mediator, workplace investigator and retired administrative law judge with the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board. Before becoming an administrative law judge, she worked as a trial lawyer with the California Department of Transportation, specializing in Government Tort, Property and Landlord/Tenant Law.

Adele has worked as a mediator for more than 20 years, specializing in workplace mediations and communication skills. Her investigations include claims of harassment and discrimination in the workplace. She arbitrated for the International Commission on Holocaust Era Insurance Claims. Adele also served as a volunteer mentor for parolees in the State Bar Volunteers in Parole program. She teaches effective communication as a precursor to building trust.

Outside of Office

Adele is an avid traveler and gardener who has hiked at magical locales all over the world. You can follow her adventures at www.postcardsfromadele.com.

  • State Mediation and Conciliation Service, Mediator (since 2000)
  • Alameda County Superior Court Alternative Dispute Resolution program, Mediator (since 2009)
  • International Commission on Holocaust Era Insurance Claims Appeals Tribunal, Arbitrator (2005-2006)
  • Volunteering for Oakland, board member (since 2010), VP, Dictionary Day Project Director (since 2012)
  • SEEDS Community Resolution Center, volunteer case developer, mediator and coach (since 1999)
  • Volunteers in Parole, mentor (2000-2004), Mentor of the Year (2003)
  • Students Rising Above, mentor (2009-2012)

Education

Golden Gate University School of Law, J.D.

John F Kennedy Graduate School of Psychology, M.A., Psychology / Certificate in Conflict Resolution

Boston University, College of Liberal Arts, B.A.

Areas of Expertise

Coaching

Mediation and Conflict Resolution

Admission

State Bar of California