"I know firsthand the stress and uncertainty that litigation brings to attorneys and their clients. My goal as a mediator is to bring experience, perspective, and thoughtful problem-solving to the process, helping parties make informed decisions, manage risk, and find a meaningful path forward."

Meet Lara Tibbals

Experienced Litigator. Dedicated Mediator. Committed to Resolution.

After decades of representing clients in complex civil litigation, I founded Tibbals Mediation in 2023 to dedicate my practice exclusively to helping parties resolve disputes.

My experience as a litigator gives me a firsthand understanding of the challenges attorneys face when evaluating risk, managing client expectations, and navigating difficult settlement negotiations.

I believe effective mediation requires careful preparation, an understanding of the legal and practical issues, and the ability to connect with people who may have very different perspectives on the same dispute.

My approach is thoughtful, practical, and engaged. I work closely with counsel to understand the issues before mediation, facilitate productive conversations during the session, and explore opportunities for resolution even when agreement initially appears difficult.

I consider it a privilege to work with attorneys and their clients during these important moments, and I approach every mediation with the preparation, attention, and respect it deserves.

Professional Experience

Member of The Florida Bar since 1997
Founder and Full-Time Mediator and Arbitrator, Tibbals Mediation LLC
Former Equity Partner and Of Counsel at a leading Tampa Law Firm
First Federal Law Clerk to the Honorable James S. Moody, Jr., United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida

Certifications & Appointments

Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil and Family Mediator
Certified Mediator, United States District Court, Middle District of Florida
Approved Mediator, United States District Court, Southern District of Florida
American Arbitration Association Panel Member for Arbitration and Mediation
Florida Supreme Court Qualified Arbitrator

Education & Advanced Training

Harvard Law School, Program on Negotiation – Master-Level Certificate in Mediation and Conflict Management
University of Florida Levin College of Law, J.D., with Honors
Florida State University, B.A. in Communications

Leadership & Service

Former Chair and current Commissioner, Second District Court of Appeal Judicial Nominating Commission
Co-Chair, Hillsborough County Bar Association Mediation & Arbitration Section
Frequent speaker and moderator on mediation, negotiation, ethics, and dispute resolution
Author of The Art of Resolution, a monthly newsletter providing practical insights for attorneys and clients navigating conflict