What happens at the first mediation meeting?

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Our first meeting is a free, half-hour mediation orientation so that you can meet the mediator(s) and decide if you'd like to try using mediation to create your estate plan. We'll explain the process, and you can ask any questions that you wish. The mediation orientation is free of charge as long as we’re talking about the mediation process, and not the details of your particular case. We offer the mediation orientation because choosing a mediator that is right for your family is a very personal and very important decision.

We want to make sure you choose the right professional mediator and mediation office for your needs. If you’re almost certain you’d like to mediation to create your estate plan, you can schedule your first mediation appointment to follow the mediation orientation. If you’d prefer just to meet us and find out more about mediation, that’s fine too. There’s no obligation when you come in for a mediation orientation appointment.

The actual Mediation process involves sitting down at a table in a neutral location where all parties will have the opportunity to present their concerns and suggestions in a balanced and non-confrontational way. There are only two steadfast rules: (1) One person speaks at a time. (2) No name-calling.

Everything flows from there in an orderly and organized fashion. Each person gets a chance to voice their concerns, and the mediators will facilitate the discussion. Next, we make a list of the issues and decide which to discuss first. We work through each issue until there are no more issues left.

Sometimes, people find they need more information before they can make an agreement or before the session can continue. When that happens, we can either go on to another issue, or stop the session and make another appointment, so that you'll have time to gather the information you need, or speak to your accountant, lawyer, or other advisor(s). Mediation works best when people don't feel rushed to make an agreement and when they have all of the information they need to make a good agreement.

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