Why Try Mediation?

No,  I prefer to work with all parties directly and without attorneys, as it allows for a more open, respectful, and efficient dialogue. Mediation is most effective when individuals speak for themselves, focus on shared goals, and work together toward resolution without the added pressure of legal strategy or formalities. However, if you do wish to bring an attorney to the session, please note that all parties must also have legal representation to maintain fairness and balance in the process. This ensures the environment remains neutral and supportive for everyone involved. 

 We mediate all types of conflicts, with a focus on family, divorce, and elder care. This includes parenting plans, property division, and elder care decisions among family members. We also work with senior living communities to resolve resident rights issues, staff conflicts, and discharge concerns. Our goal is to help families and care providers reach fair, respectful solutions. 

 Yes, you are welcome to have a support person with you during mediation. However, if the session is conducted online, you must share the name of anyone who will be present with you before the mediation begins to ensure transparency and maintain a fair environment for all parties. 

No, mediation is significantly less expensive then going through the courts and using attorneys. 

 No. As a non-attorney mediator, I provide a neutral, balanced space focused on practical solutions—not legal battles. This allows all parties to feel heard and work collaboratively toward resolution. While I don’t give legal advice, I encourage participants to consult an attorney before or after mediation to ensure their rights are protected and agreements are clear. 

The process of mediation is not legally binding. Both parties may stop mediation at any time. 

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) from mediation is typically not a legally binding contract on its own—it’s meant to outline the agreements reached and serve as a clear record of the parties’ intentions. However, an MOU can become legally binding if:

1. Both parties agree in writing that it is enforceable.
    
2. It includes specific, clear terms like a contract would (e.g., timelines, responsibilities, outcomes).
    
3. It is signed by all parties, showing intent to follow through.
    
4. In some cases, if the MOU is filed with a court (such as in divorce or custody cases), a judge can approve it, making it enforceable by law.
    

If parties want the MOU to have legal weight, it’s often recommended to have it converted into a formal contract or court order after mediation.

$269 per 2 hour block of time for the first mediation session, due payable before mediation begins.  Each hour there after is $129 per hour.   This includes a written memorandum of understanding provided for all parties to keep for their records. 

Yes, prior to the beginning of a separation or divorce mediation we have a few additional  documents that must be completed. A  document with your  financial information and assets.  A document on your preference for custody schedule for children.  At the end of a divorce or custody mediation we provide a memorandum of understanding and mediated divorce or separation agreement. 

The mediation process is a structured, yet flexible way to resolve conflicts with the help of a neutral third party—the mediator. As a trained mediator, my role is not to take sides or make decisions, but to guide the conversation using proven techniques that help each party communicate openly, one topic at a time. Mediation typically takes place with all parties in the room together, creating a safe and respectful space for dialogue.

We begin with a brief opening statement, where I explain the mediation process, set expectations, and outline the ground rules for communication and confidentiality. This helps set the tone for productive, focused discussions. Next, each party is given several uninterrupted minutes to share their side of the conflict, allowing them to feel heard without interruption or judgment. This helps surface the key issues and concerns from each perspective.

From there, we work through each topic one step at a time, identifying shared interests and exploring potential solutions. The goal is to move from conflict to cooperation, with the mediator facilitating rather than directing the conversation. By the end of the session—or sessions, we aim to reach practical, mutually agreed-upon resolutions.

If agreements are reached, we wrap up with a Memorandum of Understanding, summarizing the terms discussed. This document provides a clear record of what both parties have agreed to, and it can serve as the basis for a legal agreement if desired. The entire process is confidential, voluntary, and centered on empowering the parties to find their own solutions in a respectful and constructive way.

 Absolutely, mediation has proven to be highly effective, with statistics showing that approximately 70% to 90% of mediation cases result in a full or partial agreement. Many participants report increased satisfaction with the outcome compared to court proceedings, as mediation allows them to have a voice in the resolution. Studies also show that agreements reached through mediation are more likely to be followed, since both parties helped create the terms. Additionally, mediation often saves time and money—resolving disputes in weeks rather than months, and at a fraction of the cost of litigation. 

 Mediation can take place either in-person or online, offering flexibility to meet your needs and comfort level. Online mediation is conducted through a secure video platform, allowing all parties to join from their own private locations. Just like in-person sessions, the mediator facilitates the conversation, ensures respectful communication, and guides the process topic by topic. Participants can speak freely, share documents if needed, and work toward resolution in real time—all from the convenience of home. Whether virtual or face-to-face, the goal remains the same: a calm, confidential space to resolve conflict and find common ground.  

Prefer in person mediation? We have offices in multiple cities through out Washington State.

 To join online mediation, a person needs a stable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone, access to a video platform like Zoom, and a quiet, private space. It's also helpful to test the tech beforehand and have digital copies of any needed documents. 

 Mediators will not conduct a mediation if there’s a serious power imbalance, safety concern, or if one party is unwilling to participate in good faith. While mediation is typically confidential, there are exceptions—such as when a mediator learns of child abuse, threats of harm, or other situations required by law to be reported. These safeguards help ensure the process remains safe, respectful, and legally compliant. 

 The length of mediation depends on the complexity of the conflict and the willingness of both parties to work together. Some issues can be resolved in a single 2-hour session, while more involved cases—like divorce or elder care planning—may take several sessions to reach a full agreement. Mediation is generally much faster than going to court, offering a more efficient path to resolution. 

We provide mediation services for anyone living in Washington State.