At Gammage & Burnham, we believe that not every dispute belongs in the courtroom. Through alternative dispute resolution (ADR), our attorneys help businesses resolve complex legal conflicts efficiently and cost-effectively—without the time, expense, and disruption of prolonged litigation.

We are equally experienced representing clients in ADR forums and serving as the neutral party facilitating resolution. Richard Mahrle, a cornerstone of our ADR practice, brings more than 46 years of legal experience to his work as a mediator and arbitrator, including appointments through the American Arbitration Association, FINRA and private referrals. His reputation for fairness, preparation, and sound judgment makes him a trusted neutral in business, employment, construction, and commercial disputes across Arizona. Rick is regularly appointed to serve in both institutional and private proceedings and has been recognized for his leadership in the ADR community as former Chair of the Executive Council of the State Bar of Arizona’s ADR Section.

As Neutrals: Trusted to Guide Resolution

Rick Mahrle regularly serves as:

  • Mediator in business, commercial, employment, and real estate disputes
  • Arbitrator for complex matters involving contracts, construction, and partnership disagreements
  • Panel chair or sole neutral in binding and non-binding arbitration proceedings
  • Selected neutral in both institutional (AAA) and ad hoc dispute settings

Drawing on decades of litigation and transactional experience, Rick helps parties clarify issues, assess risk, and explore practical solutions. He is known for his ability to defuse tension, gain parties’ trust, and steer disputes toward resolution with minimal posturing and maximum efficiency. 

As Advocates: Strategic Representation in ADR

Our commercial litigation attorneys also regularly represent clients in mediation, arbitration, and structured negotiations, applying the same precision and preparation that defines our trial work—just in a more flexible setting. We collaborate across practice groups to bring the right legal and industry insight to each matter, especially in disputes involving:

  • Business and partnership conflicts
  • Commercial contract and licensing issues
  • Executive employment and severance matters
  • Real estate and leasing disagreements
  • Regulatory investigations and compliance disputes
  • Construction and development-related claims

Whether we’re facilitating settlement as neutrals or advocating for clients in ADR, our focus is the same: resolve disputes thoughtfully, protect our clients’ interests, and deliver lasting results. We offer practical, experienced ADR leadership that helps businesses move forward—efficiently and on their terms.