What is Mediation?

Like Collaborative Law, Mediation is a collaborative rather than adversarial approach to problem-solving. A Mediator is a neutral facilitator aiding both parties to reach comprehensive and enduring agreements. The parties may or may not have attorneys representing them during the mediation process.

How Does the Mediation Process Work?

As a Mediator, Linda initially focuses on creating a safe and neutral environment where the parties feel free to talk. She assists the parties with identifying their respective needs and priorities. A process for information gathering, including use of neutral experts, if necessary is agreed upon. The parties then are encouraged to generate a wide-range of options and solutions to disputed issues, and to educate themselves about the pros and cons of each. Negotiations occur once each party is fully informed about the issues and possible solutions.

Throughout the mediation process Linda monitors the dynamics between the parties to ensure that each is empowered to move forward at each stage of the process. The parties maintain control of the process at all times, moving forward and deciding a disputed issue only after each has given consent to do so.