Question 1

What is mediation?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is a confidential process where a neutral third party helps people in conflict communicate, explore options, and work toward agreements they choose—rather than having a decision imposed by a court.

Question 2

Is mediation the same as therapy or legal advice?

Accepted Answer

No. Mediation focuses on resolving a specific dispute. A mediator does not provide therapy or legal advice, and does not decide the outcome for you.

Question 3

Who is mediation for?

Accepted Answer

Mediation can help families, coworkers, neighbors, and others who want a respectful path to resolution—including matters referred by attorneys—especially when communication has stalled but people still want a say in the outcome.

Question 4

When is mediation a good alternative to litigation?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is often a strong alternative when parties want more control, more privacy, a faster path to resolution, or less damage to future working or family relationships. Litigation may still be necessary in some matters; a free consultation can help you weigh the fit.

Question 5

Can mediation help preserve working or family relationships?

Accepted Answer

Yes—especially when future interaction is unavoidable. Mediation won’t save every relationship, but it can support clearer communication and workable interaction after conflict, rather than deepening hostility.

Question 6

Is mediation appropriate when future interaction still matters?

Accepted Answer

Often it is. Co-parents, coworkers, neighbors, and business partners may benefit from a process designed to resolve issues without destroying the ability to communicate going forward.

Question 7

What happens in a typical mediation session?

Accepted Answer

Your mediator sets ground rules, helps each person share their perspective, clarifies issues, and guides discussion toward practical options and agreements.

Question 8

Do we have to meet in the same room?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Sessions can be joint, in separate spaces (shuttle mediation), online, or a mix—depending on comfort, safety, and what will be most productive.

Question 9

What is your approach when parties are far apart on value at the start of the session?

Accepted Answer

When parties start far apart, I don’t treat it as resistance—I treat it as a signal that their valuation frameworks haven’t aligned yet. My first step is to understand what’s driving each number, such as evidence, risk assumptions, timelines, emotional factors, or cost-of-resolution estimates. I help each side clarify their reasoning and then translate those narratives into practical settlement choices.

Once we surface the underlying assumptions, the gap usually becomes more workable. Using structured dialogue, private caucus, and reframing, I help parties test their assumptions, explore ranges rather than fixed positions, and consider risk, cost, delay, and finality.

I also manage pacing. Some parties move quickly while others need time, cooling-off periods, or incremental steps. My role is to keep both sides engaged, reduce friction, and help them make informed decisions—never to force premature concessions.

Question 10

How do you handle an impasse?

Accepted Answer

An impasse is data, not defeat. By normalizing the moment, exploring interests, reframing the problem, and offering structured ways to move forward, I help parties regain clarity and momentum. The goal isn’t to push past the impasse—it’s to understand it well enough that the path forward becomes visible.

Question 11

What if we don’t reach an agreement?

Accepted Answer

You can pause, continue later, or pursue other options. Even without a full agreement, many people leave with clearer understanding and next steps.

Question 12

How does mediation support privacy and control compared with formal litigation?

Accepted Answer

Mediation conversations are generally confidential, and the people involved work toward their own agreements rather than having a decision imposed. That combination of privacy and control is one reason many individuals—and many attorneys—consider mediation before or alongside more formal processes.

Question 13

Will you provide a written agreement to mediate before the session date?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I require a signed Agreement to Mediate before any pre-mediation preparation begins. This agreement outlines the scope of the mediation, the confidentiality terms, and the fee structure, ensuring that all parties have a shared understanding of the process before we move forward.

Having this agreement in place protects everyone involved, prevents misunderstandings, and supports a well-structured, professional mediation experience.

Question 14

What are your fees, and what does your fee cover?

Accepted Answer

I offer a free initial consultation to ensure I am the right fit for your needs and to give you a clear understanding of the mediation process before any commitment is made.

• Pre-mediation preparation: I do not charge for preparation time. This includes reviewing materials, clarifying issues, and designing an approach tailored to your case.
• I do not charge for travel.
• Mediation fees: My fees are based on the complexity of the case and whether the parties are represented by attorneys. In general, mediation rates range from $200–$400 per hour.
• Post-session follow-up: A standard follow-up, such as clarifying agreements or coordinating next steps, is included at no additional cost. If extensive post-session work is requested, we will discuss that together before moving forward.

My goal is to provide a transparent, accessible fee structure with no surprises, so you can focus fully on resolving the conflict and moving forward.

Question 15

How much does mediation cost?

Accepted Answer

Fees depend on the complexity of the case and whether parties are represented by counsel. Mediation rates generally range from $200–$400 per hour. Preparation time and travel are not charged, a free consultation comes first, and standard post-session follow-up is included. Many people find mediation more affordable than prolonged litigation.

Question 16

How long does mediation take?

Accepted Answer

Some matters resolve in a single session; others take several meetings over weeks. Complexity, readiness, and scheduling all play a role.

Question 17

How quickly can we get started?

Accepted Answer

After your consultation, we typically schedule intake and a first session within a short window, based on everyone’s availability. A signed Agreement to Mediate is required before pre-mediation preparation begins.

Question 18

What certification do you hold, and is it current?

Accepted Answer

I hold a current certification as a mediator through the Washington Mediation Association (WMA). I also hold a Master’s degree in Alternative Dispute Resolution from Pepperdine University School of Law. My professional memberships are active and include the Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR) and the Washington State Bar Association (WSBA).

Question 19

Do you have any prior relationship with opposing counsel, the opposing party, or the insurer?

Accepted Answer

I conduct a thorough conflict check before accepting any matter. If I have had any prior professional, personal, or financial relationship with opposing counsel, the opposing party, or the insurer—even something minor—I disclose it immediately.

My standard is not just avoiding actual bias but also avoiding the appearance of bias. If any relationship could create a reasonable concern about impartiality, I will recuse myself unless all parties give informed, written consent. If impartiality cannot be maintained, I will decline or withdraw.

Question 20

Can mediation help with co-parenting?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mediation is often used to create or refine parenting plans, improve communication, and reduce conflict around day-to-day decisions—supporting a more workable co-parenting relationship after conflict.

Question 21

Should we still talk to a lawyer?

Accepted Answer

Many people consult independent counsel for legal advice while using mediation to negotiate terms. Your mediator remains neutral and does not replace legal counsel.

Question 22

When should a workplace use mediation?

Accepted Answer

Early—when tension is affecting trust, collaboration, or retention, and before conflict hardens into larger formal processes whenever possible.

Question 23

Is workplace mediation only for two people?

Accepted Answer

No. It can involve pairs or small groups, depending on the conflict and organizational goals.

Question 24

What kinds of attorney-referred matters are a good fit for mediation?

Accepted Answer

Family transitions, co-parenting disputes, workplace conflicts, neighbor and civil disagreements, and other matters where parties want efficient resolution, privacy, and a structured neutral process—especially when ongoing relationships still matter.

Question 25

Why do attorneys refer clients to mediation?

Accepted Answer

Counsel often refer matters when clients may benefit from more control, confidentiality, lower escalation risk, and a process that can preserve workable future interaction. Mediation can complement legal advice without replacing it.

Question 26

How should an attorney direct a client to get started?

Accepted Answer

Clients—or counsel on their behalf—can request a free consultation. We’ll discuss fit, process, confidentiality, and next steps without pressure. Our For Attorneys page outlines what to expect from a referral.

Question 27

Is online mediation confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, within the same legal and ethical framework as in-person mediation. We also ask participants to join from a private space.

Question 28

What do I need for an online session?

Accepted Answer

A private room, stable internet, a device with camera and microphone, and headphones if helpful. We’ll provide simple setup guidance.

Question 29

Are mediation conversations private?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes. Mediation is designed to be confidential, with limited exceptions required by law (such as certain safety concerns). We’ll explain the boundaries clearly before you begin.

Question 30

Will what I say be used against me later in court?

Accepted Answer

Mediation communications are often protected from later use in court, though rules can vary by jurisdiction and situation. Ask during your consultation for details relevant to your case.

Question 31

What happens after I request a free consultation?

Accepted Answer

We’ll review your message, follow up by your preferred contact method, and talk through whether mediation seems like a good next step—without pressure.

Question 32

Do both parties need to contact you?

Accepted Answer

One person can start the conversation. If mediation moves forward, the other party will be invited to participate willingly.

Straightforward answers for uncertain moments

General questions

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