Mediation is a respectful and supportive process where a neutral mediator helps you and the other party talk through your concerns and work toward solutions you both can agree on. Unlike a courtroom, where a judge makes the final decision, mediation gives you the control to shape an outcome that fits your unique situation.

Mediation is private, less stressful, and usually far more cost-effective than going to court. It also encourages open communication and understanding, which can help preserve important relationships, something the courtroom process often overlooks.

By choosing mediation, you avoid the long delays, high expenses, and adversarial nature of litigation, while gaining a safe space to be heard and to move forward with confidence

Preparing for mediation doesn’t have to be stressful. You don’t need to “build a case” the way you would for court—mediation is about conversation, not confrontation. Here are a few simple steps that can help you feel ready and confident:

• Think about your goals. Consider what’s most important to you and what outcomes would feel fair.

• Gather helpful information. Bring along any documents or details that might support a clear discussion (for example, schedules, agreements, or financial information, depending on the situation).

• Keep an open mind. Mediation works best when both sides are willing to listen, share, and explore options.

• Focus on the future. Rather than rehashing every detail of the past, think about solutions that will help you move forward.

• Take care of yourself. A clear mind and calm approach will make the process easier.

Remember, you don’t have to have everything figured out before coming in. Your mediator is there to guide the conversation, ensure everyone is heard, and help you work toward an agreement that feels fair and respectful.

Mediation is designed to feel supportive and approachable, not intimidating like a courtroom. Here’s what you can expect:

• A calm, safe setting. The mediator creates a respectful space where everyone has the chance to speak and be heard.

• Guided conversation. The mediator will help keep the discussion on track, making sure it stays fair and balanced.

• Focus on solutions. Instead of arguing over who’s “right” or “wrong,” the goal is to explore options and find common ground.

• Your voice matters. You’ll have the opportunity to share your concerns, priorities, and ideas for resolution.

• Confidentiality. What’s discussed in mediation stays private, unlike a public court case.

• Collaboration, not confrontation. Mediation encourages understanding and helps reduce conflict, often preserving important relationships.

Most people find mediation to be far less stressful than they imagined. You’ll be supported throughout the process, and the focus will always be on creating an outcome that feels fair and workable for everyone involved.

Mediation is designed to be a safe, comfortable space where open and honest conversation can happen. To keep the process focused and less intimidating, lawyers and outside advisors do not sit in the mediation room.

That said, you are absolutely welcome to involve them in ways that support you. Many clients choose to:

• Share the final memorandum of agreement with their lawyer before signing, for legal review and peace of mind.

• Have a lawyer or advisor available by phone during breaks, if they’d like extra guidance.

This way, you still have access to trusted professional advice while keeping the mediation process supportive, balanced, and centered on your voice.

Generally, what is said during mediation is not admissible in court.

Mediation is designed to be a confidential process, which means that discussions, proposals, and offers made during mediation cannot later be used as evidence if the case goes to court. This confidentiality encourages people to be open and honest without fear that their words will be used against them later.

The only exceptions are rare situations, such as threats of harm, admissions of child abuse, or if both parties agree in writing to waive confidentiality.

In short: you can speak freely in mediation, knowing that what you say will usually stay in mediation and not follow you into court.

Yes, once both parties reach an agreement in mediation, the terms are written into a memorandum of agreement. While this document itself is not a court order, you are free to have it reviewed by your attorney before signing. Once signed, it becomes a legally binding contract.

If needed, the agreement can also be filed with the court to become enforceable as a formal court order—especially in family matters such as parenting plans or divorce.

The important thing to remember is that mediation allows you to shape the outcome. Instead of having terms imposed by a judge, you create an agreement that feels fair, workable, and respectful—while still carrying the strength of legal enforceability.