Smiling man in a suit and tie.

Curriculum Vitae

Admitted to the California Bar in 1978, Mark S. Ashworth is a seasoned legal professional who has made a lasting impact in jury trials, litigation, and alternative dispute resolution. 

A founding member of Smith & Ashworth, he later established Ashworth, Hayes & Moran, LLP, and in 2006, renamed the firm Ashworth & Ashworth, LLP, when his daughter, Carissa Ashworth-Johnson, joined as a partner. 

With over forty years of experience, Mr. Ashworth has litigated, mediated, or arbitrated more than 3,000 cases, including over 95 jury trials across California.

His ADR and mediation experience started as a Pro Tem settlement judge and later as an ADR panelist for the California Superior Court in the mid-1980s. That later expanded into his private mediation and arbitration practice, Ashworth ADR Solutions, which he has run since 1995. He mediates and arbitrates a wide variety of cases, but now focuses on Lemon Law actions, medical malpractice claims, and residential real estate disputes. 

Comprehensive Case Experience

Mr. Ashworth's extensive case experience underscores his mediator qualifications, providing a versatile foundation for resolving complex cases.

His breadth of expertise spans numerous areas but he chooses to limit himself to key areas of civil law. 

Educational Background

Mr. Ashworth's legal journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in 1972, followed by his Juris Doctor from Western State College of Law in 1978. These academic accomplishments laid the groundwork for his illustrious career in civil litigation and alternative dispute resolution.

Business meeting with four professionals discussing.

Memberships and Affiliations

Mark S. Ashworth's professional affiliations highlight his commitment to legal excellence and mediation expertise:

Superior Court ADR Panel (1987-2014)

Orange County Bar Association

Los Angeles County Bar Association

State Bar of California, Litigation Section

American Bar Association, Mediation Section

Graduate of the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution

Member of the California Academy of Distinguished Neutrals

Featured in Who's Who in California

Business meeting with diverse professionals discussing.
GettyImages-641184680 (1)

Notable Accolades

Mark S. Ashworth has earned an AV Martindale-Hubbell rating, the highest standard for legal ability and ethical conduct. He is also listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers and recognized as a Super Lawyer for his outstanding contributions to litigation and mediation.

Group meeting in modern office setting.

Litigation and Mediation Expertise

With a track record of trying countless bench and jury trials throughout nearly every California County, Mr. Ashworth's litigation experience significantly enhances his mediation approach. His skills help attorneys and their clients control their case outcome. Mr. Ashworth has mediated or arbitrated over 3,000 cases since 1986, including multiple Lemon Law cases per day, CD cases, UM/UIM cases, Employment cases, Real Property cases and other litigated disputes. Mr. Ashworth is recognized by The National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals.

Business handshake in a bright office setting.

Mediation Approach

Mr. Ashworth adopts an integrative and facilitative approach to mediation, tailoring his methods to each unique case. He creates an environment where parties feel heard, fostering collaboration and mutual agreement. His guiding principle: "Make today the last day of your case."

Schedule Your Case

Ready to work with an experienced professional known for exceptional mediator qualifications? Reach out to Ashworth ADR Solutions today to schedule your case.