About John W. Shenk: Expert Mediator in Complex Business Disputes
John W. Shenk is a leading mediator in complex business disputes, with a focus on partnership conflicts, shareholder and derivative claims, and investor-related litigation. Known for his effectiveness in resolving “business divorces,” John helps parties navigate the personal and financial complexities that can derail businesses mired in ownership-level disputes.
Drawing on his experience as both a litigator and an MBA-trained strategist, John brings a balanced, business-minded perspective to mediation. He helps partners, shareholders, and LLC members assert their interests without escalating conflict—guiding them toward diplomatic, forward-looking solutions that preserve value and avoid costly, destructive litigation.
John’s work in the legal cannabis industry—a sector known for intricate governance challenges and volatile investor relations—has made him a sought-after mediator for cases involving self-dealing, breach of fiduciary duty, and even fraud. His ability to defuse high-stakes disputes with calm precision has earned him a reputation as a trusted problem-solver in the most contentious environments.
His mediation practice is grounded in deep legal experience across partnership breakups, fiduciary disputes, trade secrets, unfair competition, and real estate conflicts—all approached through a lens of resolution rather than escalation.
Education and Credentials
John W. Shenk’s educational credentials include degrees from Stanford University (B.A.) and the University of Southern California, where he earned both a Juris Doctor and an M.B.A. He is a respected member of the State Bar of California and is authorized to practice before the Supreme Court of California, all lower state courts, and several United States District Courts.
Complex Business Disputes, Simplified
Biography
John W. Shenk is a foremost mediator specializing in multifaceted business disputes, renowned for resolving high-tension “business divorces” among partners, shareholders, and investors alike. Drawing on a robust legal background combined with an MBA-trained strategic outlook, he approaches each case with a deeply informed, business-minded perspective. This distinctive blend allows him to comprehend not only the legal complexities but also the financial and operational nuances that can determine the success or failure of a business embroiled in conflict.
Whether addressing partnership breakups, shareholder and derivative claims, or investor-related litigation, John’s techniques emphasize open communication, pragmatic solutions, and the maintenance of crucial relationships. His record of mediating self-dealing, breach of fiduciary duty, and fraud cases—especially in the legal cannabis sector—attests to his adaptability and calm precision under pressure. By providing a structured environment that encourages dialogue rather than divisiveness, he helps parties preserve both economic value and professional rapport.
John’s purview extends to trade secrets, unfair competition, and real estate disputes, where he leverages his prior litigation experience to guide clients toward effective, forward-looking outcomes. Above all, his primary objective is to keep costly court battles—and the resulting reputational damage—at bay. Known as a steadfast, impartial problem-solver, John steadies combative situations and guides businesses through simmering tensions to find common ground. The net result is a tailored, results-oriented approach: preserving assets, safeguarding vital partnerships, and ensuring long-term stability for all involved.
About John Shenk
Education and Credentials
John W. Shenk’s educational credentials include degrees from Stanford University (B.A.) and the University of Southern California, where he earned both a Juris Doctor and an M.B.A. He is a respected member of the State Bar of California and is authorized to practice before the Supreme Court of California, all lower state courts, and several United States District Courts.
MBA
USC Marshall School of Business
JD
USC Gould School of Law
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Stanford University
Supreme Court of California
All California State Courts
U.S. District Courts for all regions
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
Active member of ProVisors
Engages with the Los Angeles County Bar Association
Volunteers with various mediation programs through the Los Angeles Superior Court
Serves on the Board of Directors at Rose City Center, a non-profit dedicated to affordable, high-quality psychotherapy
Read What Clients Are Saying...
“John W. Shenk’s mediation transformed a tense negotiation into a productive collaboration. His expertise and calm demeanor made all the difference. Highly recommend!”
Sarah Thompson
CEO @ Green Solutions
“Thanks to John, we were able to vindicate our investor rights and secure significant equity in a challenging start-up environment. His insights were invaluable!”
Michael Roberts
Investment Manager
“John has a remarkable ability to facilitate open communication. His workshops on conflict resolution have improved our team’s dynamics tremendously!”
Emily Tran
Human Resources Director
“I can’t thank John enough for his help in resolving a community dispute. His empathetic approach fostered understanding and led to a lasting agreement.”
David Chen
Community Leader
“John Shenk’s mediation skills saved us from a potential crisis. He handled the situation with professionalism and care, allowing us to focus on our mission again.”
Laura Martinez
Executive Director at Nonprofit Org
“John helped me eliminate toxic partners from my business. His strategic guidance was key in restoring my company’s growth and vision. Truly a lifesaver!”
Kevin Smith
Business Owner
