Mediation

Mediation is a forward-looking process, where the goal is to build an agreement that meets each party’s needs. A successful mediation is one where each party can speak freely, feels heard, feels understood and is able to listen and understand the other party’s perspective. It is not simply a negotiation, although negotiating can certainly be part of the mediation process.

My Approach

When mediating, I follow the conversation and through active/reflective listening, checking in and summarizing, I help the parties identify and discuss the issues. I do not sit in judgment, nor do I express personal opinions. I may work with parties to problem-solve, if that is their desire. I seek to help clients peacefully work through the issues with calm, care and consideration.

When mediating, I cannot give parties legal advice but since I am a lawyer who has training and experience in the family law matters of custody, separation, divorce and child support, I can provide legal information to the extent that parties desire it.

I have been a private mediator since 2004.

Divorce/Separation Mediation

When two people in an intimate relationship – whether married or not – desire to end that relationship, resolve various legal issues between them, and/or move on to a different type of relationship with each other, mediation can be a way to accomplish these goals. The mediation process of building an agreement typically involves identifying each party’s broad goals and the issues for discussion, gathering necessary information, discussing/brainstorming options and solutions, engaging other professionals to assist (financial, parenting) if necessary, obtaining individual attorney review, and developing a final agreement.

Co-Parenting Mediation

Raising children is hard work. It’s even harder when doing it as co-parents who live in separate households and who may have differing values and approaches. As children grow and develop, a parenting plan written when the child was 5 may not apply when that child is 15. Parents and families can use mediation to help them work through the difficult conversations and decisions that come up during their children’s lives.

How do you know if mediation is the right choice for you?

If you feel you can make decisions for yourself, follow through on whatever promises you make, be willing to agree to disagree, and be willing to hear and consider another perspective, you should be able to successfully participate in mediation. If you both desire to maintain a changed relationship post-separation or post-divorce with each other, such as co-parents or simply friends, mediation can be a cost-effective option to get there. Where there has been domestic violence between parties, where the emotional hurt is too raw or too deep, where there is a significant power imbalance between parties, or where there are significant issues of mental illness and/or substance abuse, mediation may not be the best choice, in which case you might consider Collaborative Law. (link to this page on the site)

Typically, each mediation session takes 1 ½ to 2 hours. Fees are paid at the time of service.