Spotlight: Hon. Tabitha Ponder
Mon, Mar 23rd, 2026 | by Miles Mediation and Arbitration | Get to Know our Neutrals | Social Share
Hon. Tabitha Ponder is a mediator, arbitrator, and judge; we recently spoke with her about her approach to mediation and arbitration.
Q: What types of cases do you handle as a mediator and arbitrator?
Tabitha: I handle general civil and family law mediations, along with contract and real estate disputes. I practiced real estate law for 20 years and have arbitrated both real estate and construction matters as well. Because I spent decades running a small practice in South Georgia, I handled “everything but the kitchen sink.” That range of experience allows me to quickly understand the legal, business, and practical issues that drive a case.
Q: How does your background as a business owner shape your approach?
Tabitha: I’m a businesswoman first. I ran my own practice for more than 20 years. Managing a firm requires strategic thinking, financial discipline, and the ability to make tough decisions. That experience gives me a practical lens in mediation — I understand risk, cost-benefit analysis, and the importance of efficient resolution. Clients appreciate that I approach cases not just legally, but from a real-world, business perspective.
Q: What advice do you have for attorneys — especially those newer to mediation?
Tabitha: Preparation is everything. Prepare your client for the mediation process and prepare yourself as if you’re going to trial. A thoughtful mediator statement is incredibly helpful, particularly in cases with complicated facts — it allows me to review the issues in advance and make our time together more productive.
I also encourage attorneys to truly know their case. I ask a lot of questions. When lawyers defer to their clients to answer basic questions — especially in a joint session — it can signal a lack of preparation. Strong preparation builds credibility and momentum.
And don’t hesitate to suggest mediation even early in the process. When attorneys come prepared and open to negotiation, mediation can accomplish far more than many expect.
Q: What’s key for plaintiff’s attorneys to keep in mind?
Tabitha: Set realistic expectations. Mediation is a negotiation. If clients come in believing their initial demand is the only acceptable outcome, they can shut down when the process requires movement. Helping clients understand that mediation involves give-and-take makes resolution far more likely.
Q: What unique perspective do you bring to your role as a neutral?
Tabitha: I’ve worked on every side of the courtroom. I began as an insurance defense attorney handling workers’ compensation and litigation matters, then practiced as a plaintiff’s attorney, and now serve as a judge. Combined with my experience running a firm for over two decades, I bring a broad, balanced perspective. I understand how each side evaluates risk and opportunity, and I use that insight to help parties reach practical, durable resolutions.
Learn more about Tabitha, or schedule a mediation with her, by clicking here.
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