Mediation Agreements and Resources
Mediation Agreements and Resources
Mediation Agreements and Resources
Resolution-Focused
Separation and Divorce
My Approach
Separation is hard—emotionally and financially. The money that once supported one home now has to stretch to cover two. Going to court can add even more stress and cost. That’s why many people I work with want to avoid court if they can.
In court, the judge makes the final decision, and often one person feels like they’ve won, while the other feels like they’ve lost.
Mediation is different. You and your former partner stay in control of the decisions. Mediation is “without prejudice,” which means you can talk openly and explore options without worrying that what you say will be used against you in court later.
I aim to make your mediation process more helpful, thoughtful, and productive.
As a lawyer, I often review separation agreements and give legal advice. Sometimes clients tell me their mediator warned them that lawyers just want to create conflict to make more money. That’s not what I do. When acting as a lawyer my job is to make sure you understand your legal rights and responsibilities.
"Did you know the law might entitle you to $1,000 in child support each month? Is there a reason you agreed to $250 instead?"
Sometimes this is the first time someone has heard what the law actually says—like the Federal Child Support Guidelines or other important rules.
It’s like selling an old car for $500, only to find out later it was worth $25,000. If you don’t know what something is worth, it’s hard to make a fair deal.
As a mediator who is also a lawyer, I add value. I can provide legal information, help you think about the legal issues, and what the results may be short and long term based on your decisions. That way, both people can agree to something fair—and are less likely to want to change the agreement later. This is especially important if you’re going to be co-parents.
As your mediator, I help you and your former partner find creative solutions that work for your family—even ones the court might not be able to offer.
Please note: When acting as a mediator, I cannot give legal advice. I can provide referrals to family law lawyers who will give you legal advice.
I’m also trained to act as an arbitrator—a private judge—if you both agree to go that route. Before making any decisions, we would talk together about how the process will work, including how evidence is shared.