Q: What is Mediation? A: Mediation is a voluntary and cooperative process in which two or more parties involved in a dispute work with an impartial party, the mediator, to generate their own solutions in settling their conflict.
This process allows you to maintain control of your lives, keep your dignity and respect in the process. Unlike a judge or an arbitrator whose decisions subject one party to win and the other party to lose, mediation is about finding a solution that works for both parties.
Any conflict can be mediated. No topic is too big or too small to resolve through the mediation process.
Q: What is the role of the Mediator? A: The mediator’s role is to facilitate communication between the parties and offer suggestions without imposing solutions. Mediators do not advise independently, take sides or render a judgment. Instead, the mediator will work with all the parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable resolution.
Q: What Does Mediation Cost?
A: Mediation is a highly cost effective alternative to litigation. We offer a free consultation to explain our services and benefits, as well as offer an estimate of costs based on the specifics of your situation. Mediation saves time, money, energy and can dramatically reduce trauma.
Mediation is frequently less than one quarter of the cost of traditional divorce and may be completed in four to six months rather than the average of one to two years. Attorneys typically require large retainers of $5,000 – $20,000 per person for litigation. The time consuming nature of litigation often leads to further escalating costs. There are often post-divorce litigation proceedings that continue the high costs and increased emotional trauma for adults, children and families.
Q: Is Mediation Right for Us?
A: Mediation works for most couples. Whether you need to start from the beginning or just need to settle those last few details, mediation can provide a safe, cost effective, often quicker alternative to litigation. However, if one spouse is in physical danger or unwilling to participate then mediation would not be the right process.
Come in for a free consultation to find out if Mediation is right for you.