FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My hourly rate is $175/hr. I provide pricing either based upon (a) fixed rate quote based on a maximum number of sessions and maximum number of hours worked or (b) hourly quote with a minimum of two (2) hours. FIXED RATE QUOTE For example, an online divorce mediation may include the following services: (2) individual introductory sessions (max of 30 min each), (2) joint mediation sessions (max of 1 hr each), (7) hours of work, including document review and preparation, party communications, session prep, and final documentation The cost for the above would be $1,750.00. I require a 25% deposit at the time of signing the Agreement to Mediate. And the balance is invoiced as work is completed at the 50% and 75% intervals until the maximum hours and sessions are met. Thereafter, any additional services are provided at $175/hr. It's a reasonable and straightforward method as you only pay for work as it is completed. Gives you the ability to save money if you are able to work together with the other party and reach a resolution sooner. HOURLY QUOTE For example, a business mediation would be hourly based upon the time spent in session as well as the time spent to review documents, party communications, session preparation, and final documentation creation. Ask about available discounts as well as flexible payment plan options.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
An introduction phone conversation is performed so that the new client can provide basic information regarding the dispute and how I can assist in helping them resolve the issue. In understanding the dispute I am able to identify if I have the ability or capacity to provide assistance in helping the parties reach a resolution. When the parties choose to use my services, each party will complete the New Client Questionnaire (which is found on my website) separately and sign the Agreement to Mediate. During the introductory session(s) each party will explain the issues involved in the dispute, what their interests are as well as what an optimal outcome looks like for them. As well, I provide each party additional information about mediation and discuss the roles and expectations for the parties and myself. My website has a number of documents and preparation worksheets that can be downloaded and/or filled out online to help the parties in the process, depending on the type of dispute. After completing both introductory sessions I would summarize the issues, areas of agreement and understood areas of disagreement in order to work with the parties to set the agenda for the joint mediation sessions. Regardless of whose services a new client uses, each party needs to feel comfortable and confident in the mediator's ability to help them be at their best during a time when most people are usually at their worst. My goal is to ensure that I can provide a safe and productive atmosphere in mediation where the parties can be empowered and open to think creatively so as to have the greatest opportunity for reaching a successful resolution.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I received my State of California Certification in Mediation in 2009 and renewed it in 2019. I have performed hundreds of mediations as a volunteer in Small Claims Courts and in community settings. I have a master's degree in Dispute Resolution (MDR) and BA in Communication. I have completed numerous trainings dealing with ethics, online dispute resolution (ODR), and family mediation. I am a member of Southern California Mediation Association (SCMA), AAA Mediation, Mediate.com, and the California Dispute Resolution Council (CDRC).