FAQs

What can be resolved using mediation?

Most disputes between family members can be resolved through mediation. Divorce and separation, parenting plans, spousal and child support, child custody, estate and probate disputes, and real estate disputes can all be mediated. Conflicts involving domestic violence require special consideration; while in some circumstances, these conflicts might be mediated, many are more appropriate to litigate.

How many sessions will it take?

Mediation could require as few as four or five sessions or as many as 10 or 12, over a matter of weeks or months – it depends entirely on the complexity of your issues and your schedules.

How much will it cost?

Costs will depend on the number of mediation sessions required. Learn more about our fees here.

Will I still need a lawyer?

Yes, although your attorney costs will be significantly reduced. Each party should have their own lawyer to provide legal guidance as needed during the process, as well as review the written agreement that is negotiated through mediation before signing.

What mediation style do you use?

Mediators all have their own individual styles; my approach is personal and pragmatic. I use elements of both facilitative and transformative mediation styles to provide clear guidance to clients throughout the process.

Do we all have to be in the same room during mediation?

It depends.  Mediation is tailored to suit the parties.  I offer mediation where each party can be in a separate room (whether virtual or in-person) with or without their attorney. This is called the “shuttle method.” Or, you may choose to participate in a mediation where I facilitate using joint sessions. 

We’ve been fighting for years. I’m not sure mediation will work for us. Why should we consider it?

Depending on the issue, mediation may be required by the court before you can go to trial, anyway. But whether required or not, mediation is an opportunity to resolve your dispute in a way that is acceptable to you. Going to trial means someone else decides what happens based solely on the evidence and governing law. Mediation allows the parties to maintain privacy and control over their result, often saves time and money compared to litigation, and allows for creative solutions. For example, a couple could continue to co-own real estate through a mediation; that result is highly unlikely at trial. The court, on the other hand, would most likely award the property to one person or order it sold.

My partner/family member thinks mediation will take too long and waste money since our case will go to court eventually anyway. Is that true?

Actually, mediation is almost always quicker and less expensive than litigating. Meditation is becoming more popular as an alternative to litigation, but not everyone understands how it works. Just one example: if you’re litigating and have real estate to divide, each party often hires their own real estate appraiser. Then the lawyers spend time reviewing the resulting appraisals and negotiating. In mediation, the parties would agree to use a single appraiser. Regarding going to court: in the end, your written agreement will be reviewed by your attorneys and will indeed be submitted to the court, but you’ll save significant time and legal fees along the way.