Why Mediate?

                                            Mediate Don’t Litigate

 Benefits of Mediation 

Ø  Utilizes a much less expensive problem-solving approach to settlement
Litigation is expensive. Although the nature and complexity of the dispute controls the legal cost, it is not unusual to see five and even six figure attorney fees in just about any type of contested case. 

Ø  Identifies and addresses interests of both parties
As a trained counselor I listen to both parties and use “focused listening” skills to teach communication. Individual meetings, or caucusing, are held with the mediator. This allows for one-on-one communication sessions with the mediator

Ø  The individuals control the process
Because mediation is designed to allow parties to communicate openly in an effort to explore alternatives best suited to their own needs, it is an inherently fairer method of dispute resolution than litigation. A judge may arrive at a wise and fair decision. It may even be the best solution that could have been reached under the circumstances. In the final analysis however, the parties to a dispute are much better suited to decide its outcome than any third party ever will be.

Ø  Encourages mutual respect and open communication
Each partner is guided by the trained mediator to speak openly about their concerns, fears and needs as they face a future of change.

Ø  Avoids long, drawn out court appearances
If you have a relatively "simple" matter that will require "only" a three day trial, chances are that your attorney will have at least 90 hours in the case by the time it's over. And this does not include costs of court, deposition costs, the attorney's expenses or the cost of expert witnesses. Add it all up and even a "low budget" trial will easily cost $15,000 and up per party. These are just the direct costs associated with going to court. After adding on the "opportunity cost" of litigation . . . the time spent away from your business or practice, this figure could easily double. Additionally, the mediation process is much quicker than litigation. Sessions can be scheduled on much shorter notice. The mediation process itself takes less time than litigation. Finally, the chances of a postponement are far less with mediation than with litigation.

Ø  Mediation is confidential - hearings are not published
An additional benefit provided by mediation is privacy. The parties decide who can and cannot be present at mediation sessions. Courts of law on the other hand, are open to the public.

Mediation is a win-win alternative to the traditional court litigation process for resolving legal disputes  Whether you are experiencing the personal turmoil of a divorce or a civil law suit, mediation can offer a much less expensive and time consuming approach to enable both parties to reach a settlement.

As a trained mediator and experienced mental health professional, I will guide you through all aspects of the settlement process with professional problem-solving skills and experience.