What if the practice of law could heal instead of harm?
In this episode of Restorative Works! Podcast, Dr. Claire de Mézerville López welcomes lawyer, mediator, and restorative justice facilitator Brenda Waugh for a compelling conversation about restorative lawyering. Brenda shares how she transformed her traditional legal career into a justice-centered practice rooted in healing, dignity, and human connection.
The conversation explores how restorative lawyering, the practice of legal services grounded in the principles of restorative practices, reframes the traditional legal focus on "rights" versus "needs." While legal systems often balance competing rights, restorative practices center human needs, relationships, and accountability. By shifting the process from adversarial to collaborative, lawyers can reduce trauma, create space for dialogue, and empower the people most affected by harm.
Brenda also shares inspiring stories of working outside formal legal systems, like supporting a young student facing expulsion and helping families navigate loss when institutions fall short. These moments reveal an undeniable truth that sometimes the most meaningful justice emerges through listening and being present.
Brenda is the founder of Waugh Law & Mediation, where she brings over 30 years of experience, compassion, and creativity to help clients navigate legal challenges—from contracts and workplace disputes to collaborative divorces. A former litigator and advocate for victims of family violence and consumers, Brenda has mediated thousands of cases and served as counsel for the West Virginia Senate Judiciary Committee. She earned a master's degree in conflict transformation from Eastern Mennonite University and is a certified collaborative professional. Brenda also shares her expertise nationally through seminars and published articles on restorative lawyering, alternative dispute resolution, and lawyer wellness. Her new book, Becoming a Restorative Lawyer, explores how legal professionals can build justice-centered, healing approaches in their practice.
Tune in to discover how restorative lawyering reimagines legal practice, and how a more human-centered approach to justice can create deeper, lasting change.
