What to Expect During Your Mediation

During your mediation session(s), you can expect that we will follow a defined process to get the best possible outcome for you. Mediation is a voluntary process in which you, not the mediator, decide the terms of any agreement reached.

Unlike arbitration or litigation, mediation does not provide a “ruling” or “decision” that is mandated by a third party that is out of your control. Instead, it helps you facilitate an agreement to resolve your dispute based on your words and decisions.
The mediator is not a judge and does not provide the terms of an agreement for you, nor does the mediator provide legal advice or legal instruments. Instead, the mediator plays a neutral and impartial role and facilitates the involved parties in determining the terms of their agreement without taking sides.

Here are the stages of the mediation process that we will follow:

1st Step: Introduction & Setting the Stage

We begin by creating a safe, respectful space for open communication. I’ll explain what mediation is, how it works, and my role as a neutral facilitator — not a judge or advocate for either side.
You’ll learn the ground rules, confidentiality expectations, and how we’ll work together.

The goal here is comfort and clarity — everyone knows what to expect before we begin.

2nd Step: Sharing Perspectives

Each person will have uninterrupted time to share their view of the situation in their own words.
I’ll listen carefully and ask questions to ensure I fully understand each side.
You’ll also have a chance to hear the other person’s perspective — often for the first time in a calm, structured way.

This stage helps reduce tension and build understanding — a foundation for finding solutions.

3rd Step: Clarifying the Issues

Together, we’ll outline the main points that need to be resolved.
Often, what starts as one large dispute breaks down into a few smaller, more manageable issues.
We’ll help you prioritize what matters most and separate facts from assumptions.

Clarity brings focus — and focus opens the door to resolution.

4th Step: Exploring Options & Negotiating Solutions

Once we’ve identified the key issues, we’ll move into negotiation and problem-solving.
At times, I may meet privately with each of you, this is called a caucus.
Caucusing allows us to discuss ideas or concerns confidentially, explore creative options, and test potential solutions before bringing them back to the group.
You’ll always decide what information, if any, I may share with the other side.

These private sessions often help uncover new possibilities and move the discussion forward constructively.

5th Step: Reaching an Agreement

When we arrive at solutions that work for both sides, we’ll capture them in writing.
Your agreement will be in your own words — not legal jargon — and will reflect the decisions you’ve both made.
Depending on the nature of your dispute, I may recommend that each party have its agreement reviewed by an attorney before signing.

The end goal is a clear, practical agreement you both understand, support, and can move forward with.

What To Expect Throughout The Process

  • All information shared in mediation remains confidential.

  • You’re always in control of whether to continue or end the process.

  • We don’t take sides or make decisions: you do.

  • We’ll help manage the conversation, keep it productive, and ensure both voices are equally heard.

Contact us

Interested in how mediation can help?

Share a few details, and we’ll be in touch to continue the conversation.