Areas of Specialty

Mediation

In every dispute, each party believes they are in the right. This is especially true in workplace conflicts, where communication breakdowns or unaddressed issues often escalate into tension or hostility.

Sometimes, an employer is caught between two employees they cannot afford to lose. Other times, a manager struggles with a team member—or vice versa—over perceived disrespect or unclear expectations. In organizations and clubs, conflict can arise when two otherwise good members repeatedly clash in meetings or public functions. The common thread? Communication—or the lack of it.

At Bud Communications LLC, our mediation services focus on getting people talking again. As neutral facilitators, we guide parties through constructive dialogue that addresses the root of the conflict and builds understanding.

To request mediation services, contact us. Other local resources include the Dispute Resolution Center of Kitsap County.

Investigations

We conduct independent investigations into:

  • Harassment and discrimination allegations (including federal EEO complaints)

  • Hostile work environment (HWE) claims

  • Workplace incidents involving misconduct or conflict

Our ADR Specialist is a certified Federal EEO Investigator through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Why Use an Outside Investigator?

Small businesses often lack the internal resources to conduct thorough, unbiased investigations. Even in larger organizations, employees may view internal HR investigations as compromised by bias or internal politics. Hiring an independent, neutral party helps ensure fairness, transparency, and credibility.

We also provide document examination services, leveraging our Principal’s background in law enforcement and labor relations.

With over 19 years of combined public and private sector employee relations experience, we bring both technical knowledge and real-world insight. Contact us to learn more.

Arbitration

Arbitration allows our specialist to hear specific cases and render an impartial, binding decision. These decisions are confidential and generally not subject to judicial review or public record.

Why Choose Arbitration?

  • Cost-effective alternative to litigation

  • Faster resolution than traditional court proceedings

  • Confidentiality protects reputations and internal matters

To request arbitration services, please contact us directly. You may also consider national organizations such as the American Arbitration Association.

Blind Work Incentives under Social Security Act

Our Principal has been active in the blindness advocacy movement since 1985 and brings both professional and personal experience to this area. He worked for over 16 years as a claims representative at the Social Security Administration (SSA) and has also been a beneficiary of both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

We assist with understanding SSA work incentives and navigating disability claims for individuals who are blind.

Note: All information provided is sourced directly from SSA publications and the Program Operations Manual System (POMS). For individual case support, we may ask you to sign a consent form so we can request your records from SSA. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Education & Training

Our Principal is an experienced educator who turns real-world practice into effective training. Topics have included:

  • EEO Discrimination

  • Federal Sector EEOC Processes

  • Leave Protections for Workers

  • SSA Blindness Work Incentives (for HR, supervisors, and managers)

Sessions are available in person or via Zoom. Contact us to schedule your next training class.

We are currently contracted to provide conflict management training and consulting for the Blind, Deaf, and DeafBlind with a local nonprofit organization.

We are also exploring a research and publication project—stay tuned!