Mediation offers an informal, safe and impartial forum for disputing parties to engage in an open and honest conversation so that they can hopefully move toward a mutually agreeable solution. The mediator acts only as a facilitator of the negotiation between the parties.

The mediator does not judge, side with one party, render a verdict or offer legal advice. The mediator has no stake in the outcome and therefore can be highly effective in remaining unbiased throughout the proceedings.

In a court case, there is always a loser whether it be one party, or both. Mediation allows both parties to work together to create a win-win situation. The parties enter into a mutually agreeable resolution by way of negotiation and compromise. This is a much better option than having a judge render a verdict that may be less than ideal for either party.

The types of issues that can be resolved using this forum include but are not limited to:

• Neighbor - Neighbor

• Condo Associations

• Small Claims

• Employee - Employer

• Commercial

• Community

• Faith Based

• Landlord - Tenant

• Victim - Offender

• Minor Criminal Offense

• Contracts

• Peer to Peer

• Civil

• Construction/Contractor

• Insurance Claims

• Real Estate

• E-Commerce

• Intellectual Property/Patent Disputes

• And much more!

Mediation can be a cost-effective alternative to time-consuming court proceedings. Although a mediator's hourly charge can be on the same lines as that of an attorney, the disputing parties typically split the cost of the total process. This means that money is saved because there aren't two attorneys, filing fees or duplicate appearance fees. Mediation also saves time because it usually only lasts one to two days at most. This means no long, drawn out court proceedings and no additional loss time off work.

How does mediation work?

As a life coach, mediation was a natural progression for me as much of the same skills I use in coaching are also used in mediation. Through mediation I can offer a safe environment where both parties can truly be listened to and heard.  You are given the opportunity to air your differences in a neutral location so that your relationship can be preserved.

After we agree on the location, we will set a date and time for the mediation to take place. Most disputes can be settled within just one four-hour session.  More difficult cases may require a full day or two to three consecutive full-day sessions; however, this is very rare. Once the mediation has begun, each party will take turns offering their side of the matter at hand. Then I will open the discussion for the two parties to speak to one another.  I will remain completely neutral, nonjudgmental and unbiased throughout the entire process. It is not my job to judge or render a verdict. I am merely there to assist in keeping the lines of communication open by neutralizing and facilitating the conversation between you.

If an agreement is reached, I will type up the terms, print up copies for each of the parties and notarize it.  Mediated agreements are highly effective with an over 90% success rate in fulfillment of the agreed upon terms.  In the event, one party does not hold up their end of the agreement, the injured party may continue to pursue other legal means.  Often, but not always, a mediated agreement may be considered a legally binding contract which can further offer incentive for its fulfillment.

How much will this cost me?