A family law mediator is a neutral party hired to help couples resolve the issues during and after their divorce. The mediator facilitates the communication between the parties by making sure each party is given time to speak, allowing a party to explain a point when necessary, and asking questions to make communication more clear. The mediator has extensive knowledge and expertise about the legal system, how issues may be viewed by lawyers or judges, and what alternatives there are for solving issues. When necessary, a mediator can bring in the assistance and expert opinion of third-party experts (for services such as appraisals).

Should You Use a Mediator Who Is Also An Attorney?

Certainly there are mediators out there who provide services and are qualified to do so. Unfortunately, there are also many mediators who have simply added mediation to the list of services they offer without any family law experience or a law degree.

As a licensed attorney and your personal mediator, I am part of your mediations from beginning to end. Other mediators are forced to hire an outside attorney to file your divorce, draft your final judgment, and file your final judgment. This unknown attorney, more than likely, has not been a part of your mediation OR even met you! 

Due to our qualifications, you may NEVER step foot in a courthouse. We file all the documents and process your judgment for you, so you never have to go to court. 

I will assist you in filing all papers with the court, including starting the dissolution of marriage action, preparing and filing the necessary disclosure documents, and preparing the agreement, judgment, and final papers to be filed with the court. No court appearances are necessary by either party for mediation. 

Once an agreement has been signed, that agreement is enforceable. Based on that agreement, I will draft and file a Judgment with the court. It is fairly rare for separating couples to agree on all issues, but mediation plays a vital role in resolution. An agreement can be prepared on all settled issues, and the parties can either litigate the remaining issues or take further time to think about them and come back to mediation.

Both parties are encouraged to obtain independent legal advice during the mediation process and have their lawyer review the final agreement before it is signed.