Benefits of Mediation

1. Cost-Effective: Mediation typically incurs lower costs compared to litigation. By avoiding court fees and lengthy legal procedures, both parties can save significant money.
2. Time-Saving: Mediation can often be completed in a fraction of the time it takes for a court case to be resolved. Sessions are scheduled at the convenience of both parties, speeding up the resolution process.
3. Confidentiality: Unlike court proceedings, which are public, mediation is a private process. This ensures that sensitive information remains confidential.
4. Control and Flexibility: In mediation, both parties have more control over the outcome. You can tailor agreements to fit your specific needs and circumstances rather than relying on a judge to make decisions for you.
5. Preservation of Relationships: Mediation fosters a cooperative approach, which can help maintain a more amicable relationship between parties. This is particularly important when children are involved or when ongoing interactions are necessary.
6. Less Stressful: The mediation process is less adversarial and more supportive, reducing the emotional stress and conflict often associated with court battles.

My Approach

The Understanding Model

The Understanding Model of mediation is a no-caucus approach where all parties and the mediator remain together to work through the conflict, uncover underlying issues, and identify creative solutions. This collaborative environment fosters open communication, allowing each party to listen and be heard, making it ideal for situations where an ongoing relationship is likely. While there are no separate caucuses with the mediator, breakout sessions for parties and their attorneys can be arranged for private discussions if necessary.

The Caucus Model

In the Caucus Model, parties stay in separate rooms (physical or virtual) while the mediator meets with each party individually, acting as a conduit for negotiation and discussion. An initial opening session may be held for all parties to address the mediation issues. This model is particularly useful for resolving disputes related to asset division or financial settlements, where ongoing relationships are not expected.

Why Consider the Understanding Model?

• Efficiency: There is no downtime waiting for the mediator to switch rooms.
• Effectiveness: Parties collaboratively explore and reject options together, fostering creative, win-win resolutions.
• Non-Coercive: The mediator facilitates discussions without pressuring parties to compromise their claims.
• Transformative Potential: Direct communication between parties, facilitated by the mediator in a safe setting, can lead to lasting change and deeper understanding of the risks and benefits of resolution versus litigation.

Training and Experience

I have trained in both mediation modalities through the Harvard Program on Negotiation and Champlain College’s mediation program. With extensive experience in both approaches, I am comfortable mediating in either setting. My goal is to assist parties in finding fair and lasting resolutions to their conflicts, regardless of the modality used.