While not advocating for either party, the mediator works to ensure neither party gives away too much nor dominates the other. Mediation takes place out of court, but the agreement the parties reach may be binding and submitted to a court for approval. The initial half-hour consultation is free. At the end of that half-hour, more time will be available if the parties choose to begin mediation at that time. Scheduling is at the convenience of the clients and may include evening hours.
Most sessions are two hours long.
The clients meet with the mediator for as many sessions as it takes to work through the issues and come to agreement. The mediator writes up the agreement in draft form and reviews it with the parties prior to giving each client a final copy. Each party may choose to obtain an attorney's advice during all or any part of the mediation. The fee is shared equally by the parties, unless they agree otherwise. VISA and MasterCard are accepted.