Mediation Services
At BOK Law, we believe mediation offers families a constructive path forward during times of conflict. As a neutral mediator, we facilitate discussions that help you reach resolutions while maintaining control over the outcome and preserving important relationships.
What is a Mediator?
A mediator is a neutral professional who assists in facilitating discussions to reach resolution of a conflict or issue at hand. The mediator is impartial and does not represent either party. However, parties may consult with their respective attorneys throughout the mediation process.
Mediators can provide legal information but not legal advice. For example, we can explain options for handling a marital residence (selling it, one spouse keeping it, etc.), but we cannot advise you on whether a particular option is a "good deal" for you. The intention of mediation is to give you the information so you can make informed decisions.
What is Mediation?
The mediation process involves both parties hiring a neutral mediator, who assists the parties in reaching a resolution of their divorce, child custody, support and/or other legal matter outside of court. The Mediator is impartial, and therefore does not represent either party; however, the parties may bring their respective attorneys to the mediation sessions, or participate in the sessions without attorneys.
The mediation sessions may be in-person or virtual, and last for a maximum of 2 hours for each session (studies have shown that people hit a wall after negotiating for 2 hours, and are no longer productive). Mediation sessions are generally scheduled every 2-3 weeks, but this process allows for more party control, and we can often cater toward the parties’ schedules. The number of sessions depends upon how long it takes the parties to reach resolution on all of their decisions.
There is an Agenda for each joint mediation session, so both parties know exactly what will be discussed during that particular mediation session. The mediator provides a comprehensive list of decisions the parties must make to finalize their divorce, works through the decisions with the parties, and provides options for settlement. The Mediator can formalize the parties’ settlement terms by drafting a Memorandum of Understanding or a Marriage Settlement Agreement.
BOK Law & Mediation Services provides flat fee options for mediation cases. Many parties appreciate this option over the normal hourly billing that is commonly utilized by attorneys. With flat fees, parties can budget and prepare for the cost of the mediation, making it more manageable. Contact us today to schedule a joint free one-hour consultation about the Mediation process to see if it is a fit for you.