Question 1

What is child-inclusive mediation and how is it different from regular mediation?

Accepted Answer

Child-inclusive mediation adds a specialized step to the standard mediation process: a private, age-appropriate consultation between our Child-Inclusive mediator and your child. The insights from that conversation are then brought into the mediation sessions to inform parenting decisions. Regular mediation focuses on adult perspectives only.

Question 2

Do both parents have to agree to use this process?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mediation is a voluntary process that requires both parents' participation and consent. If one parent is uncertain, a free initial consultation is a good way to explore the process together before committing.

Question 3

Is mediation legally binding?

Accepted Answer

The agreements reached in mediation are documented in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This is designed to be reviewed by your attorneys and submitted to court for approval, at which point it becomes legally binding.

Question 4

What does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Our services are flat-fee based. These flat fees vary depending on the scope of the engagement. A free 30-minute initial consultation is available to discuss your situation and provide the cost based on your needs. Mediation is almost always significantly less expensive than attorney-led negotiation.

Question 5

What happens during the child consultation?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Jones meets with your child in a child-friendly, relaxed setting for approximately one 120 minute session or two 60 minute sessions (depending on age). Children are never asked to choose between parents or make adult decisions. Dr. Jones uses clinical training and specialized child-inclusive techniques to understand your child's experience and needs.

Question 6

How many sessions does the process typically take?

Accepted Answer

Most families complete child-inclusive mediation in 2 one hour sessions and 4 two hour sessions, but can vary depending on complexity. A parenting-plan-only engagement is generally shorter. Dr. Jones will give you the flat fee based on your needs after the initial consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions