Philosophy
The mediation process that we will undertake together is premised on a simple philosophy: agreements reached by the two of you, not dictated to you by lawyers or judges, are the ones most likely to feel acceptable in the present and worthy of honoring down the road.

Process
You will be guided thoroughly and efficiently, yet in an informal and relaxed environment, through all the relevant aspects of your divorce, including equitable distribution of marital assets, parenting arrangements, child and spousal support, and taxation. At times I will inform you of pertinent information or make suggestions as to possible solutions, but you will retain ultimate control over all decision-making. It is thus essential that each of you can effectively assert your own needs and interests while also considering those of the other person. This balancing act is the cornerstone of a successful madiation.

No Litigation
The mediation process is consistently attuned to the most important reason you are here: avoiding the enormous financial and psychological toll of litigation. In addition, the collaborative, problem-solving atmosphere of mediation lays a solid foundation for future joint decision-making, particularly essential when there will be on-going parenting responsibilities.

Save Time and Money
I am aware of the financial strains that often accompany divorce. My approach is to give you at the outset and throughout the process ample pertinent information, as well as tools for conflict resolution, so that discussion and ideally resolution of issues can occur not only in the mediation sessions but, if at all possible, in between sessions as well. The more that you are both sincerely dedicated to open and respectful communication and, if you are parents, to the emotional and financial well-being of your children, the less time and cost will be involved.

Document Preparation
If you reach resolution through mediation, a written Separation Agreement is drawn up. If you choose to have your agreement reviewed by separate counsel, which I strongly encourage, I can both draft it for you and refer you to mediation-friendly consulting attorneys who understand and respect the process. I can also prepare and file the paperwork for your uncontested divorce. If you choose not to have your agreement reviewed by your own attorneys, depending on the circumstances, I may be able to draft your agreement and to prepare and file the paperwork for your unconstested divorce.

I also serve as a consulting attorney for people who are in mediation and find it helpful to have their own counsel, either to consult throughout the process of mediation or to review their Separation Agreement. I typically bill an hourly rate for these services and do not ask for a retainer (as distinguished from collaborative law services, for which I do ask for an up-front retainer).

Ethics
I conduct my mediations in accordance with the professional standards and ethics of the Association for Conflict Resolution, Family Section, and the Model Standards for Divorce Mediation as determined by the Family and Divorce Mediation Council of Greater New York. I encourage you to read these standards and to discuss with me any questions you have about mediation or divorce.