Building Bridges. Resolving Differences.

Trusted Mediation & Negotiation Services for Individuals, Families, Businesses and Organizations.

Harvard trainedNegotiation, Mediation and Dispute Resolution
Top rated in Southern CaliforniaRead our Google Reviews ↗
Over 25 years of experience1,000+ disputes successfully resolved
Raphael E. Lapin

Meet Raphael Lapin

Negotiator. Mediator. Problem Solver.

Whether you’re facing a business dispute, family conflict, trust litigation, or a high stakes negotiation, Raphael Lapin helps parties reach practical, lasting agreements while preserving relationships wherever possible.

A Harvard trained negotiation and dispute resolution expert, Raphael has advised Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and organizations around the world. His work blends deep expertise with a calm, structured approach that moves parties from impasse to resolution.

As principal of Lapin Negotiation Services and former adjunct professor of law at Whittier School of Law, Raphael has taught negotiation and mediation at leading universities and lectured on international conflict resolution at Southwestern School of Law in Los Angeles.

Individuals, families, businesses, and organizations turn to Raphael for guidance through complex negotiations, disputes, and relationship sensitive conflicts. His focus is simple: clear process, constructive dialogue, and durable agreements.

More about the firm →

Client Experiences

sonia hernani 2025-03-26

It is as clear as day that Mr.Lapin knows exactly what he is doing. He is extremely skillful and thoughtful of your cause. His help and advice are extremely appreciated and I am glad I got referred to him. He is sincere and knows how to conduct business professionally all while staying true to what will benefit YOU and what YOU want or need. If I could put 10/10 stars I would!!

Google review
James Frenzel 2025-01-17

Divorce is never easy. Raphael guided us through the whole process without any drama. He worked through the finances and divided our assets without pain. He presented a clear and comprehensive settlement which we were were both happy with. There were slight complications with the court which Raphael dealt with diligently and in a timely fashion. We would highly recommend Raphael. His rates were extremely reasonable and saved us a lot of money so we are very grateful.

Google review
Jessica Hencier 2024-11-25

Raphael helped me so much with a difficult situation where I needed professional advice about mediation and what to do next. He was very responsive and professional and gave me excellent advice while assisting me to respond to the situation. I highly recommend him if you require negotiation or mediation services.

Google review
Shannon Galofaro 2024-09-26

Raphael is very knowledgeable and helped me tremendously. He was quick to return my call and answer all of my questions. He saved me tens of thousands in lawyer fees! 10/10 highly recommend!!

Google review
Mark Berman 2024-08-30

Raphael Lapin is one of those unusual individuals who an extraordinary ability to ask the key questions, look at the various possible outcomes, and hone in on what matter and why - and finally arrive at the appropriate conclusion. I tip my hat, sir.

Google review
Terry Corey 2024-06-04

I wish I could give Mr Lapin more stars than 5. He helped negotiate a very tricky contract to buy my partner out of the partnership. He dealt deftly with each of us and looked out for both of our interests and came up with very reasonable agreements. He helped us keep things professional and made valiant attempts to keep things on the logical path and out of our emotions. He was skilled at keeping things moving forward and had us in a contract that the two of us working together would not have been able to create. The agreement was fair, clear and had clear remedies to fall back on if the agreement began to break down. Hands down worth our time, energy and money.

Google review

What Makes Us Uniquely Qualified

Expertise You Can Trust in High Stakes Negotiation

With decades of specialist experience and more than 1,000 disputes resolved, we deliver consistently exceptional outcomes. Clients rely on us to navigate their most complex matters and to secure durable resolutions that avoid the cost and disruption of litigation.

Breadth of Expertise Across Complex Matters

Our practice brings deep, cross disciplinary experience to a wide range of disputes—from personal, family, and small business matters to partnership, intellectual property, construction, healthcare, employment, and malpractice claims. This breadth allows us to navigate diverse challenges with clarity, precision, and sound judgment.

Creative Solutions That Move Negotiations Forward

We help parties uncover thoughtful, innovative options that lead to mutually beneficial resolutions. Our approach emphasizes clarity, creativity, and long term value—minimizing risk, strengthening relationships, and guiding clients toward outcomes that stand the test of time.

Continual Advancement in Negotiation and Dispute Resolution Excellence

We blend active practice with ongoing learning, development and research, ensuring our methods remain at the forefront of the field. This continual investment in learning allows us to offer clients sharper analysis, more advanced strategies, and fresh, well grounded insights that meaningfully strengthen their position in any negotiation.

In the Media

Media Appearances

Raphael Lapin with Aljazeera advising on a complex international dispute

This video includes excerpts from a discussion between Aljazeera and Raphael Lapin, regarding the international dispute in Africa involving the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

Raphael Lapin with The WAY to WOW Show on Mediation in Probate & Trust Disputes

Raphael Lapin explains how mediation resolves probate and trust disputes more efficiently while protecting estates and family relationships. He covers when mediation works best, how counsel should prepare, and why it is often the smarter strategic choice.

“Working With Difficult People” — Interview on The Way to Wow Show

Watch this great interview with Raphael Lapin on The Way to Wow Show! In the interview hosted by Kevin Bemel, Raphael discusses his book, “Working with Difficult People.”

Raphael Lapin Discusses Dealing with Difficult Family Members

Raphael Lapin returns to The Way to Wow Show to continue his discussion on how to deal with difficult people. In this interview, Raphael focuses his attention specifically on difficult family members.

The Components of a Successful Mediation

What are the necessary ingredients that make for a successful mediation? Is there a difference between a great mediation and an average mediation? How is mediation different from arbitration and litigation?

Bullies

Raphael shares how he resolved a school bullying dispute through a restorative, empathy-driven approach, bringing everyone together to express remorse and find healing instead of punishment.

Insights on Dispute Resolution

A lot of us forget about the cost of conflict, and the cost of not being able to manage conflict effectively. Raphael tells about the inner workings of conflict resolution, dispute resolution, and mediation and arbitration.

Mediation: Raphael Lapin’s Recipe for Success

There IS a difference between an average and a great mediation. So what is Raphael Lapin’s secret? What strategies does he employ to anticipate the interests of the other party? How does he help parties follow through on their commitments?

Insights on Dispute Resolution

View all articles

Already in negotiation? We can still help!

For a free, no-obligation consultation with a specialist:

Google Reviews

Lapin Negotiation Services 5.0 40+ Five-Star Google Reviews
sonia hernani 2025-03-26

It is as clear as day that Mr.Lapin knows exactly what he is doing. He is extremely skillful and thoughtful of your cause. His help and advice are extremely appreciated and I am glad I got referred to him. He is sincere and knows how to conduct business professionally all while staying true to what will benefit YOU and what YOU want or need. If I could put 10/10 stars I would!!

Google review
James Frenzel 2025-01-17

Divorce is never easy. Raphael guided us through the whole process without any drama. He worked through the finances and divided our assets without pain. He presented a clear and comprehensive settlement which we were were both happy with. There were slight complications with the court which Raphael dealt with diligently and in a timely fashion. We would highly recommend Raphael. His rates were extremely reasonable and saved us a lot of money so we are very grateful.

Google review
Jessica Hencier 2024-11-25

Raphael helped me so much with a difficult situation where I needed professional advice about mediation and what to do next. He was very responsive and professional and gave me excellent advice while assisting me to respond to the situation. I highly recommend him if you require negotiation or mediation services.

Google review
Shannon Galofaro 2024-09-26

Raphael is very knowledgeable and helped me tremendously. He was quick to return my call and answer all of my questions. He saved me tens of thousands in lawyer fees! 10/10 highly recommend!!

Google review
Mark Berman 2024-08-30

Raphael Lapin is one of those unusual individuals who an extraordinary ability to ask the key questions, look at the various possible outcomes, and hone in on what matter and why - and finally arrive at the appropriate conclusion. I tip my hat, sir.

Google review
Terry Corey 2024-06-04

I wish I could give Mr Lapin more stars than 5. He helped negotiate a very tricky contract to buy my partner out of the partnership. He dealt deftly with each of us and looked out for both of our interests and came up with very reasonable agreements. He helped us keep things professional and made valiant attempts to keep things on the logical path and out of our emotions. He was skilled at keeping things moving forward and had us in a contract that the two of us working together would not have been able to create. The agreement was fair, clear and had clear remedies to fall back on if the agreement began to break down. Hands down worth our time, energy and money.

Google review
lorelei bresler 2024-05-01

I had been struggling with a tricky conflict stemming from a poorly written contract. I contacted Lapin, and was pleasantly surprised by the pleasant and efficient customer service of the intake specialist. I discussed my matter with Raphael Lapin. To my relief, he was adept, knowledgable, and resourceful which led to a breakthrough in my situation. I am so grateful for his advice and would recommend you to consult with him as soon as you find yourself in the midst of a challenging negotiation or dispute.

Google review
daniel nguyen 2024-01-22

My insurance company filed a lawsuit against me to collect $320,000 for a disputed payout. Mr. Lapin reviewed my case and pointed out its strengths and weaknesses immediately. Based on this, he accurately evaluated the target settlement value that we should aim for - an amount that would save us a significant amount of money. At that time, I had only 7 days left to settle before the case went to trial. Mr. Lapin provided effective strategy advice, coaching and guidance to negotiate with the aggressive attorney that was representing the insurance company. After some tense backwards and forwards, with Mr.Lapin's negotiation guidance, we eventually settled on the exact value that Mr. Lapin suggested we aim for initially. He accurately assessed the entire negotiation landscape. He was available throughout the negotiations for questions and advice. I want to express my deepest gratitude for his invaluable assistance. His expertise and guidance were instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities of the negotiation process which saved me a large amount of money. His ability to analyze the situation and offer practical solutions proved to me invaluable, and we are truly appreciative of the time and effort he gave us. Mr. Raphael Lapin has extensive knowledge and experience in negotiation and I strongly recommend him to anyone involved in a complex negotiation or embroiled in a costly dispute.

Google review
Kim Huynh 2024-01-19

Mr. Lapin is a very admirable man, very knowledgeable about negotiation. I feel very lucky to have met him. He is very good when it comes to anticipating and negotiating an optimal settlement agreement. He is very agile. He looked at the lawsuit docs and he immediately got on to it. He took the time to explain and listen. He had compassion and understanding of my case. He quickly responded when I needed it. He works with his heart which I really admired and appreciated. I highly recommend him. Thank you Mr. Lapin

Google review
Dr Fenster 2023-11-08

I was involved in important negotiations and met with Raphael along with the other party. Raphael helped us pinpoint the area that we needed to understand better and address in order to come to an effective agreement between us. We then did just that, and I am grateful to Rapheal for his help.

Google review