Our site can answer these questions for you:

What is mediation?

• What kinds of cases can be mediated?
• What is the procedure?
  Do I need an attorney?
• How long does it take?
• How much does it cost?
• Will I be divorced at the conclusion of mediation?
• How do I commence mediation?

What is arbitration?

• What kinds of cases can be arbitrated?
• What is the procedure?
• Do I need an attorney?
• How long does it take?
• How much does it cost?
• How do I commence arbitration

Honest people can, and often do, disagree in good faith about important issues. After many years as a trial lawyer, I have concluded that MEDIATION and ARBITRATION, sometimes called alternative dispute resolution or ADR, are preferable methods of resolving many of the types of disputes that go to court.

The advantages are many. Whether in mediation or arbitration, the process is private and confidential. It occurs in a quiet, non-threatening and informal environment. It is faster - the parties remain in complete control of scheduling and timing, rather than surrendering control to an overloaded court docket. It is generally less expensive - by working in a cooperative rather than confrontational manner, the tasks at hand are resolved more efficiently. If attorneys are involved, less of their time is required.

ADR is emotionally less taxing - whether in mediation or arbitration, our office works to remove emotion, anger and blame from the interaction and to concentrate on resolution of issues. This is helpful in facilitating future relationships by reducing animosity in the current proceedings, and is beneficial in allowing the parties to move on with their lives.

ADR Lends itself to virtually any type of dispute, including property, support and child custody and visitation issues in divorce, real estate disputes, insurance and injury claims, contract matters and employment disputes.

In mediation, the parties are in complete control of the result. No decision is final or binding unless both parties are in full agreement. They are encouraged to consult with counsel before committing to a binding agreement. Additionally, either party may terminate mediation at any time if they choose.

In arbitration, the arbitrator makes the decision and the process is generally faster, less expensive and more informal than going to court, and it also has the advantage of being private and confidential.

This website attempts to answer many of the frequently asked questions about mediation and arbitration, but if you have additional questions, you should contact me by mail, telephone or e-mail and I would be happy to answer specific questions.