FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
We offer a free 30-minute consultation session to further familiarize the parties with the mediation process. Substantive discussions will be reserved for the actual mediation, should you wish to go forward. The free consultation as well as the mediation session can be conducted in full in person or via Zoom. During the consultation session I will provide the parties with detailed information about the mediation process and provide an opportunity for either party to ask questions. At the close of the consultation session I will ask each party if he or she wishes to proceed with mediation. Usually, the mediation process can start immediately although a later date can be selected. If yes to an immediate start, an agreement to mediate will be signed. Payment of a non-refundable deposit of $400 will be due at this time. Our fee rate is $200 per hour with a minimum commitment of two hours. Additional time is available if we are making progress. The fee is divided as the parties see fit, but it is important that the fee split is firm and clear to each party. If additional sessions are required a supplemental retainer of $400 is required before each new session can commence. Any unused time will be refunded.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Mediation is sometimes referred to as “facilitated negotiation.” The mediator is neutral, not siding with either party or participant. He (or she) does not provide legal advice or relationship counseling. He simply assists the parties in reaching a settlement that makes sense to them and is better than any other alternative that may be available. A mediated settlement is constrained by the wishes of the parties only, rather than the laws of any particular state. Accordingly, although CMS is based in California our services can be provided nationwide via Zoom. In sum, unlike an arbitrator or judge, the mediator will not decide the outcome. Mediation is a confidential process that is less formal than a trial or arbitration with no rules of evidence or other technicalities to limit how information can be presented or to restrict discussion of issues and proposals.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
During my 45-year career as a litigation claims examiner for multiple major insurance companies I have participated in well in excess in 200 mediations. In addition, I am an active member of the National Association of Certified Mediators (member #890138). I hold an MBA from the University of San Francisco where I also studied law.