Mediation is a simple process. Step one is for you and the other person to call our office to schedule a mediation session. These sessions typically take about two hours.
After the mediation is scheduled, our client coordinator will ask you to let us know what your concerns are and what you would like to accomplish through mediation.
On the day of the mediation, you will sit down with the mediator and the other party in a conference room. The mediator will begin by explaining the process to everyone, explaining the confidentiality of the process, and asking each party why they are at the mediation.
After the mediator speaks, each party will have the opportunity to tell the other party what their concerns are and what they want to see happen. This step is crucial. The mediator will help make sure that when you speak, the other party hears you and the other party understands you. Understanding is key. Makeing sure you are understood can avoid so, so many problems in reaching a solution.
The mediator will then help the parties communicate about each specific issue in their case, whether that be custody, visitation, support or property issues. The mediator is using his or her knowledge and experience to foster communication so that you and the other party can decide what is best for your family.
At the end of the mediation, if the parties reach agreements on some or all of the issues, the mediator will draft a Memorandum of Understanding documenting the parties’ agreement.