Mediation

Mediation is a method for settling disputes outside of the courtroom.  Mediation is a nonbinding process in which a neutral third party will facilitate the discussion between the parties to promote settlement.  Many family court Judges in Michigan will require mediation once a divorce, custody, or other family law case is filed, but mediation can also be agreed upon by the parties, even prior to initiating a court case. 

Mediation is voluntary and generally, mediation communications are confidential, but there are some exceptions to that rule.  If settlement is reached at mediation, to be binding, the terms of that settlement must be reduced to a signed writing by the parties or acknowledged by the parties on an audio or video recording.

Mediation is not always appropriate for every individual.  Some cases may be exempt from mediation based on the following:

  1. Child abuse or neglect

  2. Domestic abuse, unless attorneys for both parties will be present at the mediation session

  3. Inability of one or both parties to negotiate for themselves at the mediation, unless attorneys for both parties will be present at the mediation session;

  4. Reason to believe that one or both parties' health or safety would be endangered by mediation; or

  5. For other good cause shown.

Jessica offers mediation services to individuals facing family law issues.  During the mediation process, Jessica facilitates discussions between the parties to help them create a detailed agreement that is catered specifically to their family’s needs.  Jessica’s goal is to help parties focus on creating their own future, as they are more likely to follow an agreement that they helped develop than an arrangement decided by an unknown third-party.

We welcome you to contact our office to schedule a mediation session.  

Jessica’s hourly rate as a mediator is $325.  Additional details regarding Jessica’s mediation process will be sent to the parties and their attorneys upon a request to schedule a mediation session.

We welcome you to contact our office to schedule your confidential consultation.