1. What is family mediation, and how does it work?

Family mediation is a voluntary and confidential process that helps families resolve disputes in a constructive and non-adversarial manner. A trained mediator facilitates discussions between parties, helping them reach agreements that work for everyone involved. Mediation focuses on collaboration, empowering families to find solutions without needing to go to court.

2. What types of issues can be addressed in family mediation?

Family mediation can assist with a wide range of issues, including divorce and separation agreements, co-parenting plans, custody arrangements, and general family conflicts. If you’re unsure whether mediation can help your specific situation, we offer a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your needs.

3. How long does a mediation session last, and how many sessions will we need?

Each mediation session typically lasts one hour, though this can be adjusted based on your needs. The number of sessions depends on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of both parties to reach an agreement. Some cases are resolved in one or two sessions, while others may require additional time.

4. What are the benefits of choosing mediation over going to court?

Mediation is often faster, less costly, and less stressful than court proceedings. It allows families to maintain control over their decisions rather than having outcomes imposed by a judge. Mediation also fosters open communication, which can be especially beneficial when children are involved, as it helps establish a foundation for future co-parenting.

5. Is family mediation confidential?

Yes, mediation is a confidential process. The discussions and agreements made during mediation are private and will not be shared outside the mediation setting. This confidentiality fosters a safe environment for open, honest communication.

6. How much does family mediation cost?

We offer a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your situation and assess whether mediation is right for you. After that, our family mediation sessions are $200 per hour. We strive to offer transparent and affordable services.

7. Do both parties need to agree to participate in mediation?

Yes, for mediation to be effective, both parties must be willing to participate voluntarily. Mediation requires a commitment to work collaboratively and find mutually beneficial solutions.

8. How do I schedule a mediation session?

You can easily schedule a session by visiting our Scheduling page and selecting a time that works best for you. All sessions are conducted remotely via Zoom, making it convenient for you to attend from anywhere.

9. Can we bring our lawyers to the mediation session?

While mediation is generally designed to be a direct conversation between the involved parties, you may choose to consult with a lawyer outside of the sessions. This can help you understand your legal rights and obligations as you work toward an agreement. However, attorneys typically do not participate in the actual mediation sessions.

10. What if we can’t reach an agreement?

While our goal is to help you find solutions, there’s no obligation to reach an agreement in mediation. If an agreement cannot be reached, you still have the option to pursue other dispute resolution methods, such as arbitration or court proceedings.