Before joining JAMS, Jan Spies had 38 years of experience as a civil litigator.  She started as a consultant to a large insurance company, where she learned how claims are handled by insurers, third party administrators and self-insured entities. She made the transition to private practice with a firm that represented both plaintiffs and defendants in a wide variety of cases, including personal injury, insurance bad faith, commercial disputes, family law and lender liability. Ms. Spies then co- founded and managed her own firm, where she focused on litigation involving insurance bad faith, fraud, uninsured/underinsured motorist claims, personal injury and wrongful death. She regularly consulted on issues involving insurance coverage, and developed an expertise in claims involving commercial vehicles and ride share arrangements.

Ms. Spies’ approach to mediation is a practical one; her goal is to save the parties the expense, aggravation and the emotional toll that often comes with litigation and trial. She enjoys a challenge and enjoys working with litigants and attorneys to find creative ways to resolve disputes. Ms. Spies believes in preparation and clear, direct communication, which has served her and her clients well both in and out of the courtroom.

Ms. Spies is a proud military brat. Her father immigrated to the United States from Germany in the 1950’s and served in both the United States Army and the United States Air Force. Ms. Spies credits her parents and the frequent moves associated with service in the military for her work ethic and her ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences.