Understanding the Mediation Process

Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process in which the parties, with or without attorneys, work with a neutral professional who facilitates a negotiation and/or helps the parties resolve a pending legal issue.  Mediation is an informal and non-adversarial process designed to help the parties reach a mutually acceptable and voluntary agreement.  A mediator can provide the parties with information but cannot provide legal advice. The mediator has no decision-making power.

Mediation for family law issues, such as divorce, custody, child/spousal support, and asset and debt division, offers a fair process in which the parties can discuss and decide for themselves, with the professional help of a mediator, arrangements for their children, support and property division.  The parties jointly hire a neutral mediator to facilitate solutions, foster joint problem solving, and explore settlement alternatives.