In what has been dubbed Tuolumne County’s “most bizarre custody dispute,” a court battle over a mummified cat was resolved Thursday for $1 after months of contention and a trial of nearly four hours.
In the case of one-time tenant Christine Tuohy vs. former landlord Thomas Renkel, Court Commissioner Kim Knowles ruled in favor of Renkel regarding the custody of Bast, the cat that had fallen into posthumous fame.
Mediation proceedings, begun at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, had collapsed, putting ownership of the cat in Knowles’ lap.
The decision was meant to settle months of conflict over the corpse, which escalated to the point that Renkel called the Sonora Police Department to finger Tuohy for the dead cat’s theft.
Even with the question of ownership decided, however, Bast’s fate was still up in the air until a last minute mediation put it in the hands of a third party that, until then, hadn’t been involved in the case at all.
First, some background.
Bast, named by Tuohy after an Egyptian cat-god, tumbled into the future adversaries’ lives by accident in June 2008.
Tuohy was planning to move from Reno to Sonora and had made plans with Renkel to rent space in the historic Yo-semite House on North Washington Street, part of which was to be renovated before she moved in.
Renkel was investigating a burst pipe which had caused damage to part of the building. He directed a crew to cut away a piece of ceiling to expose another pipe he believed to be in danger of rupturing.
“We did not find a pipe,” Renkel said. “What we did find was the cat. It fell onto a worker. Gave him quite a shock.”
Not surprising, since Bast is anywhere from 10 to 130 years old, depending on whom you ask. The desiccated cat carcass is a pale yellow with tattered ears and a gaping maw.
It’s still a little smelly, Tuohy said, but Renkel took a shine to the creepy thing, and displayed it outside on the stoop during the renovation process.
The grand opening of Tuohy’s Blue World Photography was set for Oct. 31. When she saw the creature soon to be known as Bast, she asked if she could display it, since scary cats and Halloween were like a match made in Grimm’s Fairy Tales.
This is where the stories differ. Tuohy claims that Renkel was about to throw the cat away when she saved it from a fate worse than its own death — the garbage.
Renkel maintains that the cat’s well-being was always at the forefront of his mind, and that he’d merely lent the ghoulish thing to Tuohy.
In Tuohy’s opinion, she made that cat a star, creating a media campaign that dubbed Bast “the Amazing Cat Mummy.”
She even took it to the California State Fair as part of the Wild and Whacky exhibit, and set up a Facebook page in Bast’s honor.
It took up seemingly permanent residence in Blue World Photography. The fate of the cat didn’t come up again until Renkel evicted Tuohy from the building, a matter which also came before the court on Thursday.
“Suddenly, after two years of not wanting it, he wanted it back,” she said.
When she refused to return the freakish feline, Renkel reported it stolen.
“And you’re not willing to give it back to him at this point?” Knowles asked.
“This is going to sound strange, but I don’t think he’d take care of it like I have,” Tuohy responded.
In Knowles’ view, the cat case was pretty cut and dry.
“The court finds that you are the owner of that cat. It was in your building, it’s your cat,” Knowles told Renkel.
The trouble was that Renkel had sued for possession of the cat claiming its worth at $1,000, a position that Knowles couldn’t support.
“How do you value the mummy cat?” she asked.
Lacking any way to assign value to do so, and being forced by California law to offer a conditional settlement, Knowles had little option but to apply a “nominal value” to the thing, assigning Bast the going rate of $1.
Tuohy thus had the option of returning the cat or paying Renkel $1 to retain possession of her treasure.
When Tuohy reached into her purse and gave Renkel a buck, the case was settled in the eyes of the court.
Yet it went one step farther.
Mediator Jim W Hildreth stepped in, and, after almost four hours of trial, Tuohy and Renkel agreed to do what they’d reportedly been kicking around all day: offer the creature up to the Tuolumne County Museum.
No representative for the museum was present to accept, or reject, the gift.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court Sonora, CA 95370
Yesterday, I was honored to work as a mediator over a dispute involving a Landlord-Tenant issue.
The dispute lasted over 7.5 hours and much of my appreciation goes to the parties on both sides.
Much further goes out to the Tuolumne County Superior Court and staff, in their dedication in supporting the process of having your day in court.
The court shows respect, honesty and warmth to those with conflicts.
As a mediator, who's focus is real estate disputes, its a honor to work with such a professional team of dedicated individuals.
Jim W Hildreth Mediator.
The dispute lasted over 7.5 hours and much of my appreciation goes to the parties on both sides.
Much further goes out to the Tuolumne County Superior Court and staff, in their dedication in supporting the process of having your day in court.
The court shows respect, honesty and warmth to those with conflicts.
As a mediator, who's focus is real estate disputes, its a honor to work with such a professional team of dedicated individuals.
Jim W Hildreth Mediator.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court Sonora, CA 95370
Jim W Hildreth has been assigned to the Tuolumne County Superior Court as a court appointed mediator for 12-30-2010.
Multiple cases will be mediated and the court has a active Alternative Dispute Resolution program, 75% of the cases referred are settling in mediation, giving the disputants active dialog in resolving their individual disputes and the power to resolve those conflicts vs the court making the decision.
Cases of both small claims and civil unlimited are referred to mediation.
Multiple cases will be mediated and the court has a active Alternative Dispute Resolution program, 75% of the cases referred are settling in mediation, giving the disputants active dialog in resolving their individual disputes and the power to resolve those conflicts vs the court making the decision.
Cases of both small claims and civil unlimited are referred to mediation.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior CourtSonora, CA 95370
Jim W Hildreth completed a landlord-tenant mediation today, where the court suggested Alternative Dispute Resolution (Mediation), the parties were concerned that mediation would not work.
Within 2.5 hours the parties developed a settlement and resolve of the issues.
Hildreth stated that it was a "Win-Win" for all involved.
Hildreth does both private and court appointed mediations in Northern California. Serving the Mother Lode, Central Valley & Bay Area.
Within 2.5 hours the parties developed a settlement and resolve of the issues.
Hildreth stated that it was a "Win-Win" for all involved.
Hildreth does both private and court appointed mediations in Northern California. Serving the Mother Lode, Central Valley & Bay Area.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Fighting Addictions
Mediation involves disputes and addictions play a large role in our day to day activities and the following KCBS link is valuable towards steps of recovery.
I thank KCBS for this topic, it is well worth the discussion.
http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2010/12/19/kcbs-in-depth-fighting-addiction/
I thank KCBS for this topic, it is well worth the discussion.
http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2010/12/19/kcbs-in-depth-fighting-addiction/
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Real Estate Mediation, Real Estate Mediation Services: Addiction: Prescription Drugs
Real Estate Mediation, Real Estate Mediation Services: Addiction: Prescription Drugs: "Addiction: Prescription Drugs Originally uploaded by Gregory Thomas Photography As we approach the holidays, we celebrate with our families..."
Jim W Hildreth-Mediatorwww.RealEstateMediation.org
Jim W Hildreth-Mediatorwww.RealEstateMediation.org
Addiction: Prescription Drugs
As we approach the holidays, we celebrate with our families, we share gifts, we watch the magic of delight with children as they open presents.
For many holidays may not be the holidays as we have had in our lives.
Last week while sitting in family court, the realty of shared custody, anger, resentment, substance abuse were a realty that goes beyond on our holidays.
Alcohol abuse has been apart of my family history going back for generations and today both drug of choice seems to run rampant in our society.
The impacts effect every family member in some manner and those impacts impact society.
My blog today is not about making accusations, but offering a messaage that being sober, loving life, is a worthy goal for ones self
in the steps of recovery.
I'm so apprecitive of the 12 step programs offered in each of our communities, as they offer support, love, guidance. AA, NA, ACOA,
Co-Depencdency.
In our economic times, its so easy to alter our behaviors often in a self destructive pattern.
Perhaps this message, may be a the keys of opportunity, that will give us the support in developing our own journey that we can reclaim our lives today and for tomorrow.
Being sober, love of self, love of our future generations, is well worth the reminder during our upcoming holidays.
Jim W Hildreth
Friday, December 17, 2010
Auburn CA Courthouse
The California Gold Country has had a rich history of the lure of gold in cities such as Mariposa Nevada City, Columbia, Sonora, Angels Camp, Placerville, Auburn, Jamestown, Murphys, Paradise in Butte County.
Migrations of emigrants followed the "Gold Fever" from the 1800's.
Today a new migration wave in the Gold Country is the urban dweller who seeks a better lifestyle and a desire for a simpler life of the white picket fence, acreage and a place to retire or raise a family.
With that wave came a real estate boom starting in the 1970's.
Large acreage parcels were subdivided creating acre lots or less and the demand for commercial retail for the new storefront was the new enterprise.
With those changes and migrations of the urban dweller have created disputes involving real estate.
This week alone, Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services was busy mediating real estate disputes.
Paradise was a buyer/seller/real estate broker dispute, Jackson California had a non disclosure dispute between the buyer and seller over water runoff. Amador County has a new easement issues among neighbors. Sonora Superior Court in Tuolumne County had a neighbor vs neighbor dispute where a restraining order was placed and a landlord tenant issue over non-payment that exceeded $7,500.
When populations increase conflict will occur. Attorneys will be the gateway to those conflicts.
Today both the courts and the legal system are offering Alternative Dispute Resolution to those conflicts with both Mediation and Arbitration as an alternative to costly litigation and saving time to those in conflict. Often the courts may be backed up for months and the anger, resentment in conflicts cannot wait for the judicial system.
The Gold Country or the Mother Lode of California will continue to see increased populations with new subdivisions, new storefronts and naturally disputes will occur.
It is the wise community both in the legal and real estate community that offers both private and court appointed opportunities to resolve conflict and mediation does play a large role in settlement and resolve.
Jim W Hildreth is a Mediator who's focus is real estate disputes and his home is in Sonora, CA. His boyhood was in Sutter Creek, Jackson and Grass Valley.
Migrations of emigrants followed the "Gold Fever" from the 1800's.
Today a new migration wave in the Gold Country is the urban dweller who seeks a better lifestyle and a desire for a simpler life of the white picket fence, acreage and a place to retire or raise a family.
With that wave came a real estate boom starting in the 1970's.
Large acreage parcels were subdivided creating acre lots or less and the demand for commercial retail for the new storefront was the new enterprise.
With those changes and migrations of the urban dweller have created disputes involving real estate.
This week alone, Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services was busy mediating real estate disputes.
Paradise was a buyer/seller/real estate broker dispute, Jackson California had a non disclosure dispute between the buyer and seller over water runoff. Amador County has a new easement issues among neighbors. Sonora Superior Court in Tuolumne County had a neighbor vs neighbor dispute where a restraining order was placed and a landlord tenant issue over non-payment that exceeded $7,500.
When populations increase conflict will occur. Attorneys will be the gateway to those conflicts.
Today both the courts and the legal system are offering Alternative Dispute Resolution to those conflicts with both Mediation and Arbitration as an alternative to costly litigation and saving time to those in conflict. Often the courts may be backed up for months and the anger, resentment in conflicts cannot wait for the judicial system.
The Gold Country or the Mother Lode of California will continue to see increased populations with new subdivisions, new storefronts and naturally disputes will occur.
It is the wise community both in the legal and real estate community that offers both private and court appointed opportunities to resolve conflict and mediation does play a large role in settlement and resolve.
Jim W Hildreth is a Mediator who's focus is real estate disputes and his home is in Sonora, CA. His boyhood was in Sutter Creek, Jackson and Grass Valley.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Paradise, CA; It actually is Paradise!
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services was asked to be a mediator in Paradise over a real estate dispute.
The dispute was between buyer and seller. Hildreth based in Sonora was selected for his Real Estate knowledge in settling real estate disputes and his neutrality of the parties and community.
Spending 24 hours in Paradise CA with the parties and the community and the county of Butte, was enjoyable.
The dispute was between buyer and seller. Hildreth based in Sonora was selected for his Real Estate knowledge in settling real estate disputes and his neutrality of the parties and community.
Spending 24 hours in Paradise CA with the parties and the community and the county of Butte, was enjoyable.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Amador County Superior Court
Jim W Hildreth Mediator was appointed to act as a mediator, "Neutral" for a County of Amador, Superior Court Dispute.
Hildreth is based in Sonora, and works closely with multiple courts in Northern California. He also works closely with the legal community and disputes involving real estate.
Hildreth is based in Sonora, and works closely with multiple courts in Northern California. He also works closely with the legal community and disputes involving real estate.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Alternative Dispute Resolution its Present & Future
Alternative Dispute Resolution its Present & Future
Nearly five years ago, I had the opportunity to take the basic course of mediation through UC Berkeley Extension and Mediator Ron Kelly.
The room was filled with attorneys students who sought a alternative to the route of litigation.
For me, it was a opportunity of using 33 years as a California Real Estate Broker and with an interest
in applying decades of experience and applying it to disputes involving real estate.
For the past decade, a trend seem to be occurring that the job market for lawyers was getting tighter.
I recall a conversation with an attorney who stated to me it was more cost effective hiring an attorney than a secretary.
I read articles that in the past five years and every year, more and more people graduate from law school and there are fewer and fewer jobs.
A recent article in Yahoo news talked of the shrinking job picture for judges.
Recently a article caught my interest that this is a “Gaping Hole” in the Legal Services for the middle class as it applies to targeted mass foreclosures and debt collection suits.
The article written University law professor Larry Ribstein thinks a change in lawyer regulations could help middle class defendants.
His thought was that he suggest favoring, a legal service sector regulation based on certification rather than licensing. In his view, a law license isn't necessarily needed to provide all kinds of legal help.
In my experience this may be the case with Alternative Dispute Resolution or mediation where both attorney and non-attorneys have blended their people and mediation skills in acting as “neutrals” and having parties craft settlements vs tying the hands of local courts.
A small rural county East of San Francisco, Tuolumne County has seen in excess of 75% settlement rates with a pilot Alternative Dispute Resolution program funded by a initial grant by Judicial Council of California AOC. In six months, that is over 100 cases that offered the public alternative and freeing time for the judicial officers.
Ribstein elaborated in an article with the American Bar Association Journal. “I'm not suggesting that we completely deregulate the practice of law”, I think the problem is not too much regulation or too little regulation, but that we are linked into a single business model that cant evolve.”
Perhaps one avenue is to combine law practice with nonlegal services.
This may be a good match for Alternative Dispute Resolution or Mediation.
Its a concept that is worthy of discussion in our law schools and the many who serve local community boards where mediation plays a increased role.
Its a concept that should be discussed with local bar associations and clearly adopted and supported with leaders such as the Alameda County Bar Association in Oakland, CA where both the legal and non-legal have established a bond in membership.
Its a concept that should be discussed openly for consideration at the 2010 Conference of Delegates
for non- partisan solutions to law related issues for the benefits of Californians.
Furthermore its a opportunity for the California AOC to consider long term funding vs seed money on the value of Alternative Dispute Resolution-Mediation on a local level.
The demand of conflict will increase, more parties will turn to Pro-Per and small claims, many attorneys will suggest that cases under $25,000 may not be cost effective and suggest mediation.
The present and future of mediation and demand for disputes and the overcrowding of our courtrooms
may bring about healthy changes, solutions for the future of opportunities for both those who are licensed attorneys and those who have been certified with non-legal services.
Jim W Hildreth Mediator.
Real Estate Mediation Services
http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Sonora, CA Homeowner Dispute
The Sonora, CA homeowner called his attorney as he was having a dispute with the local building department. The local court had issued a "inspection warrant" for health and safety issues.
The homeowner had less than 24 hours to comply.
The law office suggested mediation and Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services was asked to act as a "neutral" between the homeowner and building department.
The mediator placed a few calls and the warrant was withdrawn and both sides, will regroup for a time out.
Both sides were able to allow the flow of communication and the quick mediation made it a "win- win" for a future date that will be voluntary.
Mediation does work.
The homeowner had less than 24 hours to comply.
The law office suggested mediation and Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services was asked to act as a "neutral" between the homeowner and building department.
The mediator placed a few calls and the warrant was withdrawn and both sides, will regroup for a time out.
Both sides were able to allow the flow of communication and the quick mediation made it a "win- win" for a future date that will be voluntary.
Mediation does work.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Alameda County Bar Association
Jim W Hildreth Mediator completed 1.5 hours today of continuing education, titled mediating with self-represented litigants.
This is a rule in Small Claims Court in California and many individuals are Self-Represented (Pro-Per) due to economic times.
Jim W Hildreth focus is disputes involving real property or real estate.
He works in the San Francisco Bay Area, Central Valley and mother Lode Region.
He may be contacted via his website. http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Real estate Mediation Services.
This is a rule in Small Claims Court in California and many individuals are Self-Represented (Pro-Per) due to economic times.
Jim W Hildreth focus is disputes involving real property or real estate.
He works in the San Francisco Bay Area, Central Valley and mother Lode Region.
He may be contacted via his website. http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Real estate Mediation Services.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Mariposa County Courthouse
Jim W Hildreth Mediator was assigned two disputes by the Superior Court a landlord tenant dispute over a dog bite and a vehicle damage by a contractor.
The landlord tenant dispute settled quickly as the parties worked together to solve the dilemma.
The vehicle damage dispute will continue as anger damaged the communication process.
Mediation does work if the parties are willing to listen and work together towards the goal of resolve.
The landlord tenant dispute settled quickly as the parties worked together to solve the dilemma.
The vehicle damage dispute will continue as anger damaged the communication process.
Mediation does work if the parties are willing to listen and work together towards the goal of resolve.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Full Paradise Welcome Sign
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services has been asked to do a real estate mediation between a buyer and seller in the city of Paradise.
Butte County.
The issues are non-disclosure, repairs. pest control infestation.
Jim W Hildreth will travel to Paradise from his base in Sonora, CA and will act as a "neutral" to assist in resolving the dispute.
He has no conflicts and does not know the parties.
His focus are disputes involving real estate.
Butte County.
The issues are non-disclosure, repairs. pest control infestation.
Jim W Hildreth will travel to Paradise from his base in Sonora, CA and will act as a "neutral" to assist in resolving the dispute.
He has no conflicts and does not know the parties.
His focus are disputes involving real estate.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court
The economy is causing many conflicts and those who mediate, work in the judicial system must be prepared for anger, resentment, and behaviors that are a mirror to today's stress of individuals who are often holding on by their finger nails.
Patience and understanding are a virtue of those who mediate.
Jim W Hildreth is a Sonora, CA mediator who's focus are real estate disputes.
Patience and understanding are a virtue of those who mediate.
Jim W Hildreth is a Sonora, CA mediator who's focus are real estate disputes.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Real Estate Deposit Dispute
Working today on dispute involving a real estate deposit dispute, between buyer/seller, seller is living out of the country, much of the mediation, will involve e-mail.
http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Property is located in El Dorodo County, Jim W Hildreth Mediator is based out of Sonora and has no conflicts and knows none of the parties.
http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Property is located in El Dorodo County, Jim W Hildreth Mediator is based out of Sonora and has no conflicts and knows none of the parties.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Jim W Hildreth Mediator
Jim W Hildreth is a Northern California based mediator, who's prime focus are acting as a" neutral" for resolving real estate disputes.
Mediation is confidential, less expensive then litigation and is known in the mediation field has positive, caring and dedicated in resolving your dispute.
He works both as a private and court appointed mediator.
http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Real Estate Mediation Services
Mediation is confidential, less expensive then litigation and is known in the mediation field has positive, caring and dedicated in resolving your dispute.
He works both as a private and court appointed mediator.
http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Real Estate Mediation Services
Friday, November 12, 2010
Jim W Hildreth Mediator
I completed recently a court appointed mediation in Sonora, CA. It was over a construction defect between a local contractor and the homeowners.
The Superior Court suggested mediation vs a trial.
After the mediation conclusion, I received a copy of a letter mailed to two Superior Court judges.
Jim Hildreth served as the mediator specifically appointed by Judge Provost, he did an excellent job, he showed great patience, with a dispute with high emotional tension.
Throughout the mediation Jim showed a particulary strong allegiance to the importance of mediation as an effective tool for the court, as well as adhereance to the ethical standards required of mediators.
The Superior Court suggested mediation vs a trial.
After the mediation conclusion, I received a copy of a letter mailed to two Superior Court judges.
Jim Hildreth served as the mediator specifically appointed by Judge Provost, he did an excellent job, he showed great patience, with a dispute with high emotional tension.
Throughout the mediation Jim showed a particulary strong allegiance to the importance of mediation as an effective tool for the court, as well as adhereance to the ethical standards required of mediators.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
I love YoU
Its Sunday, fall is in the air, a storm may dump snow today, a good day for sharing, giving, being thankful, reading, reflecting, photography, my mini list includes eating a spinach & mushroom and cheese Crepe and a visit to my mom. Perhaps a nap, adding a few new smiles to One Million Smiles. A simple Sunday. Love to those in conflict and the only way is through and the choice is ours. Enjoy friendships and Love
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Anger
As a mediator, I have been seeing lots of anger expressed lately at the mediation table. Anger is ok, if its directed in a manner that brings about some form of resolve.
What is not good, are deep levels of prejudice towards races, religious beliefs.
The economy is also adding a huge amount of stress and the impacts are on individuals, couples, partnerships.
Mediation can be effective in resolving disputes, if the parties are willing to sit at the same table and truly listen to one another.
A neutral can assist and guide.
Jim W Hildreth specializes in Real Estate Disputes.
What is not good, are deep levels of prejudice towards races, religious beliefs.
The economy is also adding a huge amount of stress and the impacts are on individuals, couples, partnerships.
Mediation can be effective in resolving disputes, if the parties are willing to sit at the same table and truly listen to one another.
A neutral can assist and guide.
Jim W Hildreth specializes in Real Estate Disputes.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court
Jim W Hildreth mediator completed an assigned mediation for the Tuolumne County Superior Court (Sonora, CA) with a dispute involving neighbor vs neighbor over a fence.
Joining in the mediation was Stephen R Zalkind attorney from Amador County, (Jackson, CA)
The dispute was settled.
Joining in the mediation was Stephen R Zalkind attorney from Amador County, (Jackson, CA)
The dispute was settled.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Sonora, CA 95370 Tuolumne County Superior Court
My days as a court appointed mediator have been busy in resolving disputes.
The court has taken a pro-active position that many disputes can be resolved through Alternative Dispute Resolution, and specifically through mediation.
During the past week of late October 2010 I was assigned 3 mediation's, 2 construction defects and a vandalism where a road construction grader was cut up into 7 pieces, the dispute involved long term friends for over 60 years.
Each of these disputes had the root of non-communication, anger, resentment.
Each was resolved in mediation, vs a trial in the Superior Court.
Jim W Hildreth is both a private and court appointed mediator, who's focus is disputes involving real estate.
The court has taken a pro-active position that many disputes can be resolved through Alternative Dispute Resolution, and specifically through mediation.
During the past week of late October 2010 I was assigned 3 mediation's, 2 construction defects and a vandalism where a road construction grader was cut up into 7 pieces, the dispute involved long term friends for over 60 years.
Each of these disputes had the root of non-communication, anger, resentment.
Each was resolved in mediation, vs a trial in the Superior Court.
Jim W Hildreth is both a private and court appointed mediator, who's focus is disputes involving real estate.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court Sonora, CA
Home owner cuts up construction grader into 7 pieces. Plaintiff sues for vandalism and Felony damages. Dispute settled in Mediation. Jim W Hildreth acted as the Mediator for the Tuolumne County Dispute.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court
Jim W Hildreth has been appointed to act as the mediator for a Tuolumne County construction defect dispute involving a local contractor. Two outstanding Sonora Attorneys Kate Segerstrom and Joey Wright will represent their individual clients.
Mediation will allow the parties to discuss multiple options for consideration vs facing a trial.
Jim Hildreth is a Sonora based "neutral", who's focus are real estate disputes and he works both as a court appointed and private mediator in Northern California.
Mediation will allow the parties to discuss multiple options for consideration vs facing a trial.
Jim Hildreth is a Sonora based "neutral", who's focus are real estate disputes and he works both as a court appointed and private mediator in Northern California.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Real Estate Deposit Dispute
Do you have a real estate deposit that sits in a escrow? over a seller buyer dispute?.
Deposits in California that are held in escrow can only be released by
written mutual agreement by the parties, judicial decision or arbitration award.
Real Estate Mediation Services is a professional dispute resolution service that is experienced with real estate deposits and other real property issues.
Deposits Disputes are most cost effective in the settlement in the $2,500 plus range.
Jim W Hildreth is an experienced mediator who acts as a "neutral mediator" in multiple California Superior Courts and in the private sector working closely with title companies, the legal profession and the real estate brokerage community.
All mediation's are confidential.
Fee's for services are reasonable, and mediation offers Alternative Dispute Resolution vs protracted litigation or costly binding arbitration.
http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Deposits in California that are held in escrow can only be released by
written mutual agreement by the parties, judicial decision or arbitration award.
Real Estate Mediation Services is a professional dispute resolution service that is experienced with real estate deposits and other real property issues.
Deposits Disputes are most cost effective in the settlement in the $2,500 plus range.
Jim W Hildreth is an experienced mediator who acts as a "neutral mediator" in multiple California Superior Courts and in the private sector working closely with title companies, the legal profession and the real estate brokerage community.
All mediation's are confidential.
Fee's for services are reasonable, and mediation offers Alternative Dispute Resolution vs protracted litigation or costly binding arbitration.
http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Friday, October 22, 2010
Real Estate Mediation, Real Estate Mediation Services: Alameda County Bar Association
Real Estate Mediation, Real Estate Mediation Services: Alameda County Bar Association: "Alameda County Bar Association Originally uploaded by JimHildrethJim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services completed continuing educ..."
Jim W Hildreth-Mediatorwww.RealEstateMediation.org
Jim W Hildreth-Mediatorwww.RealEstateMediation.org
Alameda County Bar Association
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services completed continuing education on Real Estate Hot Topics in Oakland, CA. The class was centered around a Court of Appeal Real Estate case Holmes v Summer whether California Real Estate Brokers representing a seller of residential real estate are under an obligation to the buyer of that property to disclose that it is over ecumbered and cannot in fact be sold to them at the agreed upon purchase price unless the either the lenders agree to a short sale or the seller deposits a whopping $392,000 in cash into escrow to cover the shortfall. This case should be a concern to brokers, salesmen and the general public especially in this period of rampant foreclosures and short sales.
Hildreth's practice has a focus with real estate disputes.
Hildreth's practice has a focus with real estate disputes.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court
Two Real Estate Landlord/Tenant mediation's were settled in the Superior Court ,County of Tuolumne. Sonora, CA
Mediation allows the parties to craft their own settlement vs a trial.
The mediation's were conducted by Jim W Hildreth a Sonora based Mediator who's focus is real estate disputes.
Hildreth does both private and court appointed mediation's.
The website is http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Mediation allows the parties to craft their own settlement vs a trial.
The mediation's were conducted by Jim W Hildreth a Sonora based Mediator who's focus is real estate disputes.
Hildreth does both private and court appointed mediation's.
The website is http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Tuolumne County Superior Court Sonora, CA
Jim W Hildreth Mediator, Mediates Real Estate Disputes and is a active mediator in the Superior Court County of Tuolumne. Sonora, CA
He can be contacted at http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
He can be contacted at http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Contra Costa County Courthouse, Martinez
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services took training today at the Contra Costa County Courthouse in Martinez.
Mediating With Self-Represented Litigants.
The mediation related continuing education included 1/2 hour in Ethics and 1 hour on Self Represented Party Issues.
Due to the present economy many parties are entering the courtroom and mediation without legal representation.
Mediating With Self-Represented Litigants.
The mediation related continuing education included 1/2 hour in Ethics and 1 hour on Self Represented Party Issues.
Due to the present economy many parties are entering the courtroom and mediation without legal representation.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Alameda County Bar Association
Jim W Hildreth Mediator was appointed to the Executive Committee of the Alameda County Bar Association Real Estate Section on 09-15-2010.
Hildreth stated that it was a real honor to be a part of the organization and be placed in a leadership role.
Hildreth's focus is disputes involving real estate.
Hildreth stated that it was a real honor to be a part of the organization and be placed in a leadership role.
Hildreth's focus is disputes involving real estate.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Real Estate Mediation, Real Estate Mediation Services: Concrete Sun
Real Estate Mediation, Real Estate Mediation Services: Concrete Sun: "Concrete Sun Originally uploaded by DrCeeThe manufacture of concrete products went out of state for six months. His employee and he exchan..."
Jim W Hildreth-Mediatorwww.RealEstateMediation.org
Jim W Hildreth-Mediatorwww.RealEstateMediation.org
Concrete Sun
The manufacture of concrete products went out of state for six months.
His employee and he exchanged verbal instruction on the day to day operations, including a possible sale in the future.
Employee sold the business which included a bill of sale and paid bills.
He did not have any written authority
Employor was going to file criminal charges. The business had a new owner.
Jim W Hildreth Mediator was asked to mediate the dispute, prior to civil and criminal charges.
The parties aired the dispute, which was heated, the parties resolved the dispute.
Courts, attorneys and mediators have learned that its always best to have it in writing and verbal agreements have different opinions by the parties.
Mediation was valuable in this dispute.
His employee and he exchanged verbal instruction on the day to day operations, including a possible sale in the future.
Employee sold the business which included a bill of sale and paid bills.
He did not have any written authority
Employor was going to file criminal charges. The business had a new owner.
Jim W Hildreth Mediator was asked to mediate the dispute, prior to civil and criminal charges.
The parties aired the dispute, which was heated, the parties resolved the dispute.
Courts, attorneys and mediators have learned that its always best to have it in writing and verbal agreements have different opinions by the parties.
Mediation was valuable in this dispute.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Real Estate Mediation, Real Estate Mediation Services: Alameda County Bar Association
Real Estate Mediation, Real Estate Mediation Services: Alameda County Bar Association: "Alameda County Bar Association Originally uploaded by JimHildrethJim W Hildreth mediator completed continuing education in Oakland, CA on ..."
Jim W Hildreth-Mediatorwww.RealEstateMediation.org
Jim W Hildreth-Mediatorwww.RealEstateMediation.org
Alameda County Bar Association
Jim W Hildreth mediator completed continuing education in Oakland, CA on the topic of Foreclosures. The class was Fundamentals of California Foreclosures.
The class covered the topic of alternatives to foreclosure, foreclosure time line's, post foreclosure, challenging the foreclosure and evictions.
The class was taught by two seasoned Bay Area Attorney's Matt Webb and Jim Nations.
As both a California Real Estate Broker and Certified Mediator, continuing education is valued and sought out, to add value in dealing with real estate conflicts and disputes.
The class covered the topic of alternatives to foreclosure, foreclosure time line's, post foreclosure, challenging the foreclosure and evictions.
The class was taught by two seasoned Bay Area Attorney's Matt Webb and Jim Nations.
As both a California Real Estate Broker and Certified Mediator, continuing education is valued and sought out, to add value in dealing with real estate conflicts and disputes.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court
Jim W Hildreth mediator was assigned today to the Tuolumne County Superior Court in Sonora, where he did 3 mediation's two that were a landlord tenant disputes and the other a construction defect with a Sonora Contractor.
Hildreth is both a private and court appointed mediator who is based out of Sonora, CA
Hildreth is both a private and court appointed mediator who is based out of Sonora, CA
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Auburn CA Courthouse
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services was asked to conduct a mediation between Buyer and Sellers deposit on a Auburn CA, home.
The deposit was being held in escrow, and mediation proved to be positive where funds will be released from the escrow.
Both sides were able to state their positions, and mediation allowed for compromise and the releasing of the funds by mutual agreement.
Hildreth's focus in mediation are disputes involving real estate and he can assist any disputant in the state of California over deposit issues.
http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
The deposit was being held in escrow, and mediation proved to be positive where funds will be released from the escrow.
Both sides were able to state their positions, and mediation allowed for compromise and the releasing of the funds by mutual agreement.
Hildreth's focus in mediation are disputes involving real estate and he can assist any disputant in the state of California over deposit issues.
http://www.RealEstateMediation.org
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Irish Vineyards Wine Dogs
Jim W Hildreth Mediator has been asked to mediate a dispute in Sonora, CA over neighbors and excessive noise of barking dogs.
The dispute ended up in Superior Court and the court, attorneys and neighbors are willing to Mediate.
The dispute ended up in Superior Court and the court, attorneys and neighbors are willing to Mediate.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court
The landlord filed a suit against his tenant, over breaking a lease and back rent. The tenant broke the lease due to hard economic times. The Tuolumne County Superior Court assigned this dispute to Mediation.
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services a trained mediator was assigned to the parties and within one hour, a settlement occurred, thus avoiding a court trail.
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services a trained mediator was assigned to the parties and within one hour, a settlement occurred, thus avoiding a court trail.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Sonora, CA 95370 Superior Court Mediation
The Judge ordered the parties to Mediation. The plaintiff was a property management company, the defendant a customer. The plaintiff sought damages per the contract, the defendant was not happy with the services.
Mediator Jim W Hildreth was the "Neutral". Within a little over an hour a written settlement occurred and both parties left the courtroom satisfied with the outcome.
Having a dispute, talk to your attorney or legal advisor about the benefits of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
Many California Courts offer ADR.
Mediator Jim W Hildreth was the "Neutral". Within a little over an hour a written settlement occurred and both parties left the courtroom satisfied with the outcome.
Having a dispute, talk to your attorney or legal advisor about the benefits of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
Many California Courts offer ADR.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court
Has the Judge Ordered Mediation?
Jim W Hildreth Mediator, can meet your mediation, court ordered mediation's.
Serving the SF Bay Area, Central Valley & Mother Lode.
A Neutral who is experienced involving Real Estate Disputes.
By Appointment- Mon-Saturday
Jim W Hildreth Mediator
www.RealEstateMediation.org
(510) 647-3600 or (209) 988-3905
Jim W Hildreth Mediator, can meet your mediation, court ordered mediation's.
Serving the SF Bay Area, Central Valley & Mother Lode.
A Neutral who is experienced involving Real Estate Disputes.
By Appointment- Mon-Saturday
Jim W Hildreth Mediator
www.RealEstateMediation.org
(510) 647-3600 or (209) 988-3905
Alameda County Bar Association
Jim W Hildreth mediator was one of 3 panel members who offered a workshop on Marketing Your Mediation Practice taught in Oakland, CA at the Alameda County Bar Association. panel members were Claudia Viera, Michele Molitor and Jim W Hildreth.
The local bar association is active in offering workshops and continuing education. http://www.acbanet.org
The local bar association is active in offering workshops and continuing education. http://www.acbanet.org
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Solano County Superior Court
Jim W Hildreth Mediator has been appointed to the Solano County Superior Court Mediation Mediation Panel.
Many California courts are active with Alternative Dispute Resolution and the courts website is http://www.solanocourts.ca.gov.
Hildreth is "Neutral" who is both a private and court appointed mediator and his focus is resolving disputes involving California Real Estate.
He serves the Bay Area, Central Valley & Mother Lode regions.
Many California courts are active with Alternative Dispute Resolution and the courts website is http://www.solanocourts.ca.gov.
Hildreth is "Neutral" who is both a private and court appointed mediator and his focus is resolving disputes involving California Real Estate.
He serves the Bay Area, Central Valley & Mother Lode regions.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Tuolumne County Courthouse Real Estate Mediation
The parties were the landlord and the previous tenant
The landlord wanted $6,000 in back rent. The case was referred to Mediation.
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services was selected as the Mediator for the Sonora dispute.
The room was filled with those ready to testify for each party.
Within 2 hours the dispute was settled and all parties left the table satisfied with the results.
The key was opening communication lines, the understanding of landlord/tenant issues, the local economy and a mediator who remained "Neutral" and had the ability to open communications.
The landlord wanted $6,000 in back rent. The case was referred to Mediation.
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services was selected as the Mediator for the Sonora dispute.
The room was filled with those ready to testify for each party.
Within 2 hours the dispute was settled and all parties left the table satisfied with the results.
The key was opening communication lines, the understanding of landlord/tenant issues, the local economy and a mediator who remained "Neutral" and had the ability to open communications.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Superior Court Testimonial
The following testimonial came after a 7 hour mediation that had been in litigation 4 plus years. Jim W Hildreth & Ed Johnson were the mediators.
Mediation does work.
Hello Jim,
It has been a long journey for sure. I appreciate your saying all that and it really was a pleasure working with both you and Ed. I have a great appreciation for all that you both did for us. It really is evident that you do the job that you do because you care about others. Please extend my gratitude to Ed as well.
Mediation does work.
Hello Jim,
It has been a long journey for sure. I appreciate your saying all that and it really was a pleasure working with both you and Ed. I have a great appreciation for all that you both did for us. It really is evident that you do the job that you do because you care about others. Please extend my gratitude to Ed as well.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services has been appointed to act as mediator in a partnership dispute that involved multiple ownership of real estate. The dispute has been in litigation for 4 years and the parties will sit today at the same table in an attempt to resolve their differences.
Hildreth looks forward in acting as "Neutral" and opening the communication lines between the partners.
The Tuolumne County Superior Court based in Sonora, CA has a active Alternative Dispute Resolution program.
Hildreth looks forward in acting as "Neutral" and opening the communication lines between the partners.
The Tuolumne County Superior Court based in Sonora, CA has a active Alternative Dispute Resolution program.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Attorney Dispute
Today Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services did a real estate mediation between an attorney and the landlord in California.
The 4 hour mediation brought out a settlement between the parties.
Hildreth's focus is disputes involving real estate.
The 4 hour mediation brought out a settlement between the parties.
Hildreth's focus is disputes involving real estate.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Tuolumne County Superior Court Mediation
JimW Hildreth, Real Estate Mediator just mediated a disagreement between me and another party. Fascinating process. Instead of the antagonistic process you feel in small claims, we both shared our concerns, asked questions and Jim facilitated us to both understand the other's viewpoint. Plaintiff May 28 2010, Sonora, CA
Friday, May 28, 2010
Jim W Hildreth Mediator
Jim Hildreth oversaw a small claims case for our company at the Tuolumne County Superior Court. I had past experiences with mediation, and going in I was convinced that it would not be successful. Because of Jim's knowledge and ability to listen, we were able to come to a resolution without the court's involvement. I highly recommend him for mediation in a Real Estate or Landlord Tenant dispute. Thanks Jim!
Tuolumne County Superior Court
Two Mediation's today in the Tuolumne County Superior Court. A Landlord-Property manager dispute the other a personal injury.
Jim W Hildreth Mediator Sonora, CA
Jim W Hildreth Mediator Sonora, CA
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
David Herzog Attorney Pinnacle Law Group San Francisco
Jim W Hildreth of Real Estate Mediation Services recently took continuing education from Attorney David Herzog of San Francisco titled the Accidental Partnership, The pitfalls of informal Business Realtionships.
The seminar covered, what is a partnership in California, What is a partners duties and liabilities, how does one get out of a partnership, how to avoid becoming partners with someone.
As a mediator Hildreth acts as a neutral with partnership disputes both in real estate and business partnerships.
The seminar covered, what is a partnership in California, What is a partners duties and liabilities, how does one get out of a partnership, how to avoid becoming partners with someone.
As a mediator Hildreth acts as a neutral with partnership disputes both in real estate and business partnerships.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Mariposa County Courthouse
"Jim Hildreth's extensive knowledge and experience in real estate is invaluable in the mediation process. Coupled with his expert mediation skills, he is able to quickly assess the issues and assist parties in resolving real estate and property disputes." Ed Johnson, Attorney at Law.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Tuolumne County Courthouse
Jim W Hildreth has been appointed by the Tuolumne County Superior Court to act as a mediator over a construction defect case in the Sonora Superior Court.
The disputants are represented by Attorney's Joseph Wright and Kate Segerstrom two excellent Sonora Attorneys.
Mediation, offers a alternative to lengthy and costly litigation.
Mediator Hildreth, works in multiple courts and he can be contacted via his website. http://www.RealEstatemediation.org
The disputants are represented by Attorney's Joseph Wright and Kate Segerstrom two excellent Sonora Attorneys.
Mediation, offers a alternative to lengthy and costly litigation.
Mediator Hildreth, works in multiple courts and he can be contacted via his website. http://www.RealEstatemediation.org
Friday, May 21, 2010
Oakland Tribune Building
Jim W Hildreth mediator will be attending a seminar titled The Accidental Partnership, the pitfalls of informal business relationships. Partnership disputes are common and can impact the ongoing business operations that can lead to a forced sale.
The seminar will be conducted in Oakland, CA at the Alameda County Bar Association, where Hildreth is an associate member.
The seminar will be conducted in Oakland, CA at the Alameda County Bar Association, where Hildreth is an associate member.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
"Woodfall's Law of Landlord and Tenant"
The young couple had been renting from the landlord for several years, the landlord offered them a opportunity to relocate to the family home as they were going to rent the home for several years as the market was depressed.
The landlord encouraged the husband and wife to take an active role in the remodeling that included painting, refurnishing the hardwood floors.
The couple jumped at the opportunity and spent hundreds of hours in transforming the home.
Words were used such a lease option and your time will be worth your extra efforts.
The home was in the best shape in decades and the home was shining with its new look.
The couple was weeks away from moving in and the landlord dropped a "bombshell" on the couple.
The landlord announced, the home had been sold.
To add insult to injury the couple was served with a 60 day notice to vacate their present home as that property was going to go on the market.
The double blow seems unreal.
An attorney for the tenant couple was prepared to file litigation.
The couple stated they had trusted the landlord and went against their own judgment to have something in writing.
The lesson is that its always best to put things in writing and form an agreement.
If a problem does occur, it will add weight as to the intent of the parties.
Jim W Hildreth is a Real Estate Mediator
The landlord encouraged the husband and wife to take an active role in the remodeling that included painting, refurnishing the hardwood floors.
The couple jumped at the opportunity and spent hundreds of hours in transforming the home.
Words were used such a lease option and your time will be worth your extra efforts.
The home was in the best shape in decades and the home was shining with its new look.
The couple was weeks away from moving in and the landlord dropped a "bombshell" on the couple.
The landlord announced, the home had been sold.
To add insult to injury the couple was served with a 60 day notice to vacate their present home as that property was going to go on the market.
The double blow seems unreal.
An attorney for the tenant couple was prepared to file litigation.
The couple stated they had trusted the landlord and went against their own judgment to have something in writing.
The lesson is that its always best to put things in writing and form an agreement.
If a problem does occur, it will add weight as to the intent of the parties.
Jim W Hildreth is a Real Estate Mediator
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