A standard mediation is when at least one, or both parties are represented by an attorney. These are typically scheduled by the attorney.

I will act as the impartial voice of the session, leaving the decision power totally and strictly with the parties. As mediator, I don’t decide what is "fair" or "right,” but rather, I will act as an intermediary between opposing interests attempting to bring them together by defining issues and eliminating obstacles to communication, while moderating and guiding the process to avoid confrontation and ill will. Concessions from each side will be sought during the mediation process.

If you do not have an attorney but would like the assistance of a mediator with real practical family law experience, I am one of the few mediators that will work for a case with unrepresented parties, deploying similar techniques for finding mutually agreed upon outcomes as those when client counsel is present.

Additionally, I will provide a licensed paralegal to help us by attending the mediation and preparing your settlement agreement documentation.

Binding mediation is an emerging trend and practice in Utah. Despite their best efforts, some cases simply need someone to make a decision for them. Typically that is the judge in the trial. But going all the way to trial can take years and cost tens of thousands of dollars.

An alternative to that process is binding mediation. Here, I will mediate the case to the best of my abilities for as long as the mediation is productive, and for as long as is needed for all the relevant and necessary information is shared. If after all that is done and the parties still do not agree, I will take the final 1-2 hours of mediation and issue a written decision. Prior to the mediation, all parties and attorneys must consent to this style of mediation.

The Court can sometimes appoint a Special Master to help quickly resolve conflict as it arises between the parties. A special master is given “quasi-judicial authority” to act as a limited extension of the court with the power to make decisions as if the decision is made by the Judge, subject to review of the Court if challenged. Typically I serve in this capacity by stipulation of the parties or by direction of the Court.

As a guardian ad litem, I represent children in a wide variety of family law matters. This is the most rewarding thing that I do in my professional career. Giving children a voice in a custody battle and a trusted adult to confide in is very gratifying. Typically, I am appointed directly by the Court or by stipulation of the parties.

If I handled your pro se mediation, for a small flat fee my staff will prepare the necessary documentation to file with the Court to finalize your matter.