Mediation
Family mediation offers a supportive, child-centered alternative to the stress of court. Our process helps parents resolve parenting disputes through open communication, fairness, and impartial guidance. By focusing on cooperation and creating practical parenting plans tailored to your family’s needs, mediation reduces conflict and saves time.
What is family mediation and who can use it?
Family mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where a neutral mediator assists parents, co-parents, or guardians in resolving parenting disputes and developing child-focused agreements outside of court. The mediator does not decide the outcome; instead, they guide constructive discussions, help clarify priorities, and support families in creating practical plans that reflect their children’s needs. Mediation empowers families to maintain control over decisions while reducing conflict, cost, and emotional strain.
Step by Step of what to expect:
1. Initial consultation — explain goals, process & answer questions
2. Information gathering — what you’ll prepare
3. Joint sessions — facilitated negotiation
4. Drafting agreements — written document ready for signatures
5. Filing with the court (if desired) — parties' responsibility if desired
What happens during a mediation session, and how many sessions are needed?
Sessions are booked in 2-hour blocks and are structured to allow adequate time to thoughtfully address parenting time, child support, and decision-making responsibilities. Additional topics—such as holiday schedules, communication guidelines, expense sharing, and dispute resolution processes—may also be addressed as needed. Most families are able to reach full or partial agreements within 2–4 sessions, depending on the complexity of the issues, level of conflict, and preparedness of the parties.
What are the benefits of mediation versus court?
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Cost savings versus litigation
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Faster resolution of disputes
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Confidential and private process
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Control over outcomes instead of a judge deciding
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Lower emotional stress for families and children
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Build skills for future communication
Can mediation be done virtually, and how much does it cost?
Yes, secure virtual sessions are available for convenience. Most parties split the cost of mediation. Mediation is significantly more affordable than Court; please contact us for pricing details.
Is the mediation agreement legally binding, and what if we can’t agree?
Once signed and filed with the court, mediation agreements are legally binding. If you can’t reach a full agreement, you may still pursue court, but most families reach at least partial resolutions.