Lexington, KY — Ward Hocker Thornton & Brown recently established the Pierce Hamblin Mediation Center, a new institution dedicated to advancing mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) throughout Kentucky and beyond.
Named in honor of Pierce W. Hamblin, a distinguished attorney, mediator, and legal educator, the center reflects his decades-long commitment to resolving disputes fairly, efficiently, and with humanity at the forefront.
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Pierce W. Hamblin, whose legal career spans over four decades, has earned a reputation as one of the Commonwealth’s most respected mediators. Admitted to practice in Kentucky and federal courts since 1977, Hamblin has mediated well over 10,000 cases, helping individuals and businesses find solutions outside the courtroom.
Hamblin’s approach emphasizes understanding both the legal and human values of conflict — guiding disputing parties not only through the technical aspects of their cases but also toward mutual understanding and sustainable agreements.
“Mediation is not just about settlement — it’s about people finding common ground and moving forward with dignity,” says Hamblin, whose work has helped shape ADR practices across Kentucky.
Vision and Mission of the Center
The Pierce Hamblin Mediation Center was founded to build on this legacy, offering a professional space where:
- Mediators with specialized training assist clients across civil, commercial, employment, and personal disputes.
- Accessible conflict resolution resources are available to the community, attorneys, and organizations.
- Training and mentorship are provided for new neutrals and legal professionals interested in ADR.
- Innovative approaches to mediation are explored — guided by principles of fairness, creativity, and ethical integrity.
By centering its mission around effective communication and resolution, the center seeks to reduce the emotional and financial costs of litigation while preserving relationships whenever possible.
Why Mediation Matters
Alternative dispute resolution continues to grow as a preferred option for many legal and non-legal conflicts. Mediation offers parties:
- Greater control over outcomes
- Faster resolution timelines
- Lower costs compared to litigation
- Confidential proceedings
- Solutions that respect the interests of all involved
This shift toward mediation reflects broader changes in legal practice and public expectations — and the Pierce Hamblin Mediation Center aims to be at the forefront of that movement.
Building on a Distinguished Career
Beyond his mediation work, Hamblin has served as an adjunct professor of law for more than 40 years, teaching litigation skills, negotiation, and mediation. His influence spans classroom, courtroom, and conference room alike.
His professional recognition includes repeated, Top 50 Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, UK College Hall of Fame and Army ROTC Hall of Fame honors and leadership roles within legal associations — highlight a career driven by both excellence and service.
Looking Ahead
Ward Hocker Thornton & Brown anticipates a new era of accessible, thoughtful conflict resolution — continuing a legacy of fairness and professionalism that Pierce Hamblin has embodied throughout his career.
Whether handling complex commercial disputes, workplace conflicts, or personal cases, the center is poised to become a regional hub for mediation excellence — helping individuals achieve resolutions that respect both the law and the people.