Life may be slowing down for recent empty-nester Michelle Sorrells, but her enthusiasm for a process that gives injured workers a chance to be heard and make a big life decision is ever-growing.

With 30 years of experience representing injured workers, Michelle believes mediation is the most effective way to resolve workers’ comp claims. “I feel it is important for the injured worker to be part of the negotiation process so they can completely understand the reasoning behind the decision-making process.”

While she’s taught workers’ comp to law students for many years and can explain the law forward and backwards, she knows the key to a successful mediation is one that can’t be taught and must be forged authentically: trust.

“In my years representing injured workers, I have learned to be a patient, active listener. Injured workers want to tell their stories and know that they are being heard. A mediation may be the only time that the injured worker has an opportunity to vent their frustrations with a system they deem unfair. For employers and insurance companies, settling is a business decision. For injured workers, it is a life decision.”

Michelle’s latest obsession is Mahjong. She’ll gladly teach you for free and loves the combination of strategic thinking, gathering with friends, and looking at the beautiful tiles and tablescapes. If you want to get her talking, ask anything about her children- two beautiful daughters! And if you really want a fun conversation, ask her about any of these three fun facts: