I like to settle cases. The first thing I do when I'm hired to represent a client (as opposed to being hired as the neutral) is try to settle a matter. I keep trying until it's resolved. Often there's some resolution to be had after trial.
As a corollary to that, I usually enjoy the process of negotiating. I like sitting down and sorting out the various competing interests and trying to settle things in a way that somehow meets those various needs.
I also spend a lot of time analyzing my negotiations and trying to improve things. Recently, I hit upon the number one step in any negotiation. Unless both sides take this step, there is no negotiation and I get really irritable.
Step one is acknowledging there is a dispute. By that, I mean each of you must realize that the other side disagrees with your position and that the other side believes in its position. Occasionally, I run into someone who believes that their side is correct and the other side knows it and is trying to cheat them.
As a result, the "negotiation" goes like this:
We want A, B and C.
I am not giving you A, B and C.
Will you agree to give us A?
Yes.
Good. Now what about B and C?
What do you want?
B and C.
What do I get?
We won't sue you for A, B and C.
You're not entitled to all of that.
Well, that's what we want.
And around we go. By the way, the agreement to A lasts about 30 seconds. in this process. Any ensuing litigation will cost both clients a lot of money until someone somehow convinces each of them that the other side honestly believes in their position.