FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Mediation is a non-adversarial way to resolve your dispute outside the courtroom with the assistance of your attorneys and a qualified neutral mediator.

I meet separately with each party to discuss all of the issues. With the assistance and guidance of your attorneys, we work through possible settlement options until you reach a resolution that both parties agree on. As a mediator, I cannot give legal advice or impose a decision. You control the outcome of your case. If an agreement is reached, I draft an agreement called a Mediated Settlement Agreement or "MSA," which is binding and irrevocable. The attorneys will then draft final orders and any necessary ancillary documents for presentation to the court for approval and finalization of your case.

  • Mediation is a Confidential Process
  • You Control the Outcome of Your Case
  • Mediation is Cheaper Than Going to Trial
  • Mediation is Less Emotionally Taxing Than Court
  • Mediation Results in a Faster Resolution
  • Mediation is Non-Confrontational
  • Mediation is Informal

As a party involved in mediation, it is important to understand your role and responsibilities. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  1. Act in good faith: Mediation is intended to be a non-adversarial, issue-solving process as opposed to a litigation setting designed to create controversy. It is crucial to approach it with an open mind and a genuine willingness to find a mutually agreeable solution.
  2. Be prepared: Familiarize yourself with the details of your case, including the positive and negative facts for both sides. Be prepared to discuss succinctly your interests, concerns, and desired outcomes within a reasonable zone of resolution. This will help ensure a productive and focused mediation session.
  3. Follow instructions from your attorney: Your attorney will guide you throughout the mediation process. It is important to follow their advice about what documents and information to bring to the mediation session.
  4. Provide necessary documents and information: Gather and bring all relevant documents, such as bank account statements, credit card statements, retirement account statements, financial account statements, and any other relevant information about the parties' finances. It is helpful to have a bullet point list of all the assets and debts for quick and easy reference during the mediation. Bring any relevant information that pertains to any children's issues in your case. It is helpful to bring a laptop or other device to access information online if needed. Please make sure you have all of your login information and passwords with you. Your attorney will help you gather the information needed for a productive and successful mediation. However, if you are unable to provide the information to your attorney prior to the mediation, please organize it and bring it to mediation. DO NOT SEND ME ANY INFORMATION PRIOR TO THE MEDIATION.
  5. Listen and communicate effectively: Actively listen to the information being provided during the mediation process with an open mind. Communicate your perspective clearly and respectfully. Effective communication is essential for understanding the issues, legal concepts, and interests of each party in order to reach a mutually acceptable resolution.
  6. Be flexible and willing to compromise: Be prepared to explore potential solutions, consider alternatives, and be open to compromise or creative options. Remember, mediation is solution-oriented, and successful outcomes often result from parties working together in good faith to reach a mutually agreeable resolution.

My role is to facilitate open and productive communications between both parties, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to express their interests. I will create a safe and neutral environment where you can engage in constructive issue-solving and explore potential resolution options. Throughout the process, I will remain impartial and not provide legal advice. My goal is to assist you in finding a mutually acceptable resolution. Please note that I will guide you through the mediation process. However, the decision-making authority rests with you and the other party.