Why Mediation

In a confidential setting, the mediator helps each party to communicate what is important to him or her and to hear what is important to the other party. With help from the mediator, the parties:

• identify the issues that need to be resolved;
• prioritize the issues and focus on one at a time;
• discuss possible solutions;
• come to agreement about parenting plans and/or financial or other issues;
• have a draft prepared of their emerging agreement; and
• review, revise, and prepare the agreement for signing.

As a mediator, Elise is in a unique role that does not involve representing or advocating for either party—in essence, she is neutral to both parties.  Mediators can give you information about state laws and local court procedures and can tell you about other resources available, but we do not give legal advice. That is, we do not interpret statutes or advise about or recommend any specific legal action that would benefit either party over the other.

Often, mediation works anyway. Elise is able to find ways to help the parties move forward, even though they might appear to be at an impasse. Elise is able to meet with the parties jointly or in the same Zoom room and also separate the parties into their own virtual “break out” room where only they can hear and see each other. She can move between the “break out” rooms to ask questions, and carry relevant information and proposals back and forth between the parties.

Yes. You may be able to reach agreement on some of the issues, even if you cannot resolve all of them through facilitated negotiations; in such cases, Elise can write up a “Partial Agreement”. You will still save time and money, and you will still avoid unnecessary stress.

• You will make the decisions. You, the individuals involved, are the ones who know your children and family best. You don’t have to leave it to a stranger in a courtroom to tell you how your family will work or how you will be raising your children.
• Mediation is cheaper than fighting in court.
• Mediation is less distressing than fighting in court.
• Mediation is faster than working your way through the many complex steps of litigation.