Question 1

What is mediation, and how is it different from going to court?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is a private, voluntary process where a neutral professional helps people resolve disputes without going to court. Unlike litigation, mediation focuses on cooperation, not confrontation, and puts decision-making power in your hands instead of a judge’s.

Question 2

What kinds of issues can we resolve in mediation?

Accepted Answer

We can address all aspects of divorce or separation, including:
•	Parenting plans and custody schedules
•	Child and spousal support
•	Division of marital property and debts
•	Post-judgment modifications
•	Communication and co-parenting concerns
•	Other relevant issues that the Parties agree to mediate

Question 3

Do we both need to agree to mediate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mediation is a voluntary process. Both parties must be willing to participate in good faith, even if you don’t currently agree on anything else.

Question 4

Is mediation legally binding?

Accepted Answer

Agreements reached in mediation are not binding until both parties sign a written agreement. Upon request, I can prepare a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA), which may be submitted to the court to finalize your matter.

Question 5

Can I still have a lawyer if I’m in mediation?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many clients consult with independent attorneys outside of mediation to review agreements or get legal advice. As your mediator, I do not represent either party and remain strictly neutral throughout the process.

Question 6

Do you tell us what to do, like a judge?

Accepted Answer

No. My role is to guide the conversation, provide structure, offer legal context where appropriate, and help both parties explore options—but not to decide the outcome.

Question 7

Do we have to be in the same room (or Zoom) during mediation?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. While many sessions are conducted jointly via Zoom, I can also hold separate sessions (known as caucuses) when it’s more productive or comfortable.

Question 8

How much does mediation cost?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is billed hourly and shared between the parties, unless agreed otherwise. Because it typically requires fewer sessions than litigation and avoids court appearances, mediation is usually far more affordable than going to court.

Question 9

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of the parties. Some couples resolve everything in 3–5 sessions; others may take longer. I’ll help you move at a pace that’s efficient but not rushed.

Question 10

Is online mediation secure and effective?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All sessions are conducted via Zoom in a private, password-protected environment. Many clients find that online mediation is more convenient and less emotionally intense than in-person meetings, especially for high-conflict situations.

Question 11

What if we can’t agree on everything?

Accepted Answer

That’s okay. Even partial agreements can reduce conflict and simplify the legal process. If full agreement isn’t reached, you can still pursue unresolved issues through attorneys or the court.

Question 12

Do you offer free consultations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I offer a free 20-minute consultation (via Zoom or phone) to answer your questions and see whether mediation is the right fit for your situation.

Question 13

What if there has been a lot of conflict or distrust between us?

Accepted Answer

Mediation does not require trust or friendliness. It requires a willingness to sit at the table. High-conflict cases can often benefit most from mediation because the process provides structure, boundaries, and professional guidance that reduces escalation.

Question 14

What if one of us is more knowledgeable or financially sophisticated than the other?

Accepted Answer

Part of my role is to ensure transparency and balance. I slow the process down when needed, explain legal and financial concepts in plain language, and encourage the use of independent professionals where appropriate so that decisions are informed and voluntary.

Question 15

What if emotions run high during sessions?

Accepted Answer

That’s normal. Mediation is designed to handle emotion without letting it derail progress. Sessions can pause, shift formats, or move into separate caucuses when needed to keep the process productive and respectful.

Question 16

You’re an attorney — how is mediation different from representation?

Accepted Answer

Although I am an experienced family law attorney, when I serve as a mediator I do not represent either party. I remain neutral at all times. My legal background allows me to provide accurate context and help parties understand the implications of their options, but the decisions always remain yours.

Question 17

Will you draft our agreement, or do we need separate lawyers for that?

Accepted Answer

Upon request, I can prepare a written settlement agreement reflecting the terms reached in mediation. Many parties then choose to have independent attorneys review the agreement before signing, which I encourage.

Question 18

What do we need to prepare before the first session?

Accepted Answer

After scheduling, you’ll receive guidance on documents and information that may be helpful. You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting — that’s what the process is for.

Question 19

Is mediation appropriate if we are already in court?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mediation can take place before, during, or even after court proceedings. Many couples use mediation to resolve some or all issues while a case is pending.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

Frequently asked questions