Ryan McFarland | Court Mediator & Business Dispute Resolution Professional

Education & Legal Background

Born in downtown Boise, Ryan is a lifelong Idahoan who attended Boise schools until graduating from Boise High School. He earned his undergraduate degrees from Ricks College (now BYU–Idaho) and Brigham Young University, where he graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in Philosophy. Ryan went on to earn his law degree from the University of Michigan.
Following law school, Ryan began his legal career as an associate at Idaho’s oldest and largest law firm. After nearly seven years in private practice, he was recruited by one of Idaho’s fastest-growing companies to serve as in-house counsel. Within 18 months, he was promoted to General Counsel.

Corporate & In-House Counsel Experience

As general counsel, Ryan advised a rapidly growing company on day-to-day operations and long-term strategy. His experience includes drafting and negotiating operating agreements, customer contracts, contractor agreements, and website terms and conditions. He also helps businesses develop, protect, and manage intellectual property portfolios.

Litigation & Dispute Resolution Experience

Ryan’s legal career began in the courtroom, where he developed a strong understanding of how disputes unfold through trial and appeal. He has represented Idaho businesses in trial courts across the state, before the Idaho Supreme Court, and in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. This litigation background gives Ryan a clear understanding of how disputes unfold in court, and how mediation can often resolve them more efficiently and predictably.

Business Formation & Protection

In addition to mediation, Ryan’s legal background regularly includes working with startup companies and established businesses with formation, governance, and dispute-related matters. His work often involves disputes among owners, contract conflicts, and business-related civil matters where mediation can preserve relationships while reducing cost and risk.

Mediation Approach

As a professional mediator in Boise, Ryan combines his litigation experience with a practical understanding of business realities. He helps parties realistically assess their positions, anticipate all potential outcomes, and work toward solutions that avoid unnecessary escalation. His approach emphasizes preparation, candor, and forward-looking dispute resolution.

Life Outside the Office

When Ryan is not working, he spends time with his family, often outdoors. On his best days, Ryan, his family, and their dogs can be found on the Payette River or deep in the White Cloud Mountains exploring and enjoying what nature has to offer.