Our Mediation Process
A clear, structured hybrid approach combining email communication and Google Meet video sessions to guide parties from conflict to resolution in 3-10 days.
Email Communication + Video Sessions
Our hybrid online dispute resolution combines the convenience of asynchronous email communication with the personal connection of live Google Meet video sessions.
Email-Based Communication
Throughout your case, we maintain clear communication via email for:
- Case updates and status notifications
- Document sharing and review
- Scheduling coordination
- Follow-up questions and clarifications
- Agreement drafts and revisions
- Automated reminders for important deadlines
Benefit: Work on your own schedule. Review materials and respond when it's convenient for you.
Google Meet Video Sessions
When it's time for live mediation, we use Google Meet for:
- Initial consultation and case assessment
- Joint mediation sessions with all parties
- Private caucuses (separate party meetings)
- Real-time negotiation and problem-solving
- Agreement finalization and signing
- Follow-up sessions if needed
Benefit: Face-to-face connection builds trust and enables nuanced communication for important discussions.
Why Hybrid ODR Works Best
Flexible & Efficient
Email for routine updates, video for critical discussions. Get the best of both worlds.
Personal Connection
Video sessions create rapport and understanding that's essential for resolution.
Documented & Secure
Email creates a clear record while video sessions are confidential and secure.
A Proven Path to Resolution
Our mediation process is designed to be transparent, efficient, and effective. We guide parties through four distinct phases, each building on the previous to create momentum toward resolution.
Initial Consultation
We begin with separate, confidential meetings with each party to understand the dispute from all perspectives.
What Happens:
- Private discussion of the dispute and your concerns
- Assessment of whether mediation is appropriate for your situation
- Explanation of the mediation process and what to expect
- Discussion of costs, timeline, and logistics
- Opportunity to ask questions and address concerns
- No obligation to proceed if mediation isn't the right fit
Outcome: Clear understanding of the process and mutual agreement to proceed with mediation.
Preparation & Planning
Both parties prepare for online mediation by gathering relevant information and establishing the framework for productive discussions.
What Happens:
- Submission of relevant documents and background information
- Identification of key issues and desired outcomes
- Establishment of ground rules and communication protocols
- Scheduling of mediation session(s) at a convenient time and location
- Preparation of opening statements (optional)
- Coordination with legal counsel if parties are represented
Outcome: All parties are prepared and ready for a focused, productive mediation session.
Online Mediation Session
The heart of the process where parties come together virtually for facilitated dialogue aimed at finding common ground and solutions.
What Happens:
- Opening statements where each party presents their perspective
- Joint discussion facilitated by the mediator
- Private caucuses (separate meetings) as needed
- Exploration of interests, concerns, and potential solutions
- Reality testing of proposals and options
- Negotiation of terms and conditions
Outcome: Progress toward resolution with clear understanding of each party's position and interests.
Agreement & Resolution
When consensus is reached, we formalize the agreement digitally to ensure clarity and enforceability.
What Happens:
- Drafting of settlement agreement outlining all terms
- Review and refinement of agreement language
- Confirmation that all parties understand and accept the terms
- Signing of the agreement by all parties
- Discussion of implementation steps and timeline
- Optional follow-up to ensure successful implementation
Outcome: Binding agreement that resolves the dispute and provides a clear path forward for all parties.
Core Principles of Our Process
These fundamental principles guide every mediation we conduct, ensuring a fair, effective, and respectful process for all parties.
Confidentiality
Everything discussed in mediation remains confidential. This creates a safe space for honest dialogue without fear that statements will be used against parties later.
Voluntary Participation
All parties participate willingly and can withdraw at any time. This ensures genuine engagement and commitment to finding solutions.
Self-Determination
Parties control the outcome. The mediator facilitates but doesn't impose solutions, ensuring agreements reflect the parties' true interests and needs.
Efficiency
Mediation typically resolves disputes in weeks rather than months or years, saving time, money, and preserving business relationships.
Typical Timeline
Case Submission & Initial Review
Submit your case online through our intake form. We review and confirm acceptance within 24 hours.
Party Invitation & Preparation
Other party is invited to participate. Both parties submit documents and prepare for online mediation session.
Online Mediation Session
Scheduled virtual mediation session conducted via secure video conference. Typically 2-4 hours.
Agreement Finalization
Digital agreement drafted, reviewed, and signed electronically by all parties.
Typical Resolution Time: 3-10 days from case submission to final agreement. Our online dispute resolution (ODR) platform enables faster turnaround compared to traditional in-person mediation.
Common Questions
Do I need a lawyer for mediation?
No, legal representation is not required for mediation. However, many parties may consult with legal counsel to make a choice of how they want to proceed, either through mediation or litigation, the choice is always yours.
What if we don't reach an agreement?
While our success rate is 92%, not all disputes resolve in mediation. If an agreement isn't reached, you retain all your legal rights and options. Often, even unsuccessful mediation narrows the issues and provides valuable information that helps parties resolve the matter later or proceed more efficiently to other resolution methods.
How much does mediation cost?
Mediation costs vary based on the nature of the dispute and time required. However, it's typically a fraction of the cost of litigation. We provide transparent fee structures during the initial consultation and work with parties to make mediation accessible and cost-effective.
Is the agreement legally binding?
Yes, once signed by all parties, the mediation agreement becomes a legally binding contract. It can be enforced in court like any other contract. We ensure the agreement is clear, comprehensive, and properly documented to provide maximum enforceability.
Can mediation work if the parties aren't speaking?
Absolutely. In fact, mediation is often most valuable when communication has broken down. One way we keep the communication is through private emails. We also offer the relationship builder 3 tier process which helps people come back together. We use techniques like caucusing (separate meetings) to facilitate dialogue even when parties prefer not to be in the same room. The structured process helps rebuild communication gradually.
Ready to Begin the Process?
Schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and learn how our mediation process can help you achieve resolution.