Frequently Asked Questions

Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process in which a neutral third party — the mediator — helps disputing parties communicate, identify their interests, and reach mutually acceptable agreements. The mediator does not make decisions for the parties; rather, they facilitate productive conversation and help parties find their own solutions.

In litigation, a judge makes binding decisions about your family. In mediation, you and the other party retain control over the outcome. Mediation is typically faster, less expensive, more private, and less adversarial than court proceedings. Agreements reached in mediation can be submitted to the court for approval and made into a court order.

Yes. Mediation sessions are confidential. What is said in mediation generally cannot be used as evidence in court proceedings. This confidentiality encourages open, honest communication and allows parties to explore options without fear that their words will be used against them later.

You do not need an attorney to participate in mediation. However, many people choose to consult with an attorney before, during, or after the mediation process to understand their legal rights and review any proposed agreement. I encourage parties to seek independent legal advice before signing any final agreement.

Mediation can address a wide range of family law issues including divorce and legal separation, division of marital property and debts, spousal maintenance, child custody and parenting time, child support, and modifications to existing court orders.

Sessions typically begin with an opening statement from the mediator explaining the process, ground rules, and confidentiality. Each party then has an opportunity to share their perspective. The mediator guides discussion, helps identify common ground, and works with the parties to generate and evaluate options. Sessions generally last two to three hours.

The number of sessions varies depending on the complexity of the issues and the parties' ability to communicate and compromise. Some matters resolve in one or two sessions; others may require four or more. I work efficiently to help parties reach resolution as quickly as possible while ensuring all issues are thoroughly addressed.

Mediation is voluntary, and no one is required to reach an agreement. If mediation is unsuccessful, parties retain all of their legal rights and may pursue other options, including litigation. Even partial agreements reached in mediation can simplify and reduce the cost of any subsequent court proceedings.

Mediation can be effective even in high-conflict situations, though it may require additional sessions and careful management of the process. I am trained to work with high-conflict dynamics and can structure sessions to minimize direct confrontation while still facilitating productive dialogue. I will assess each situation individually to determine whether mediation is appropriate.

A Parenting Consultant (PC) is a neutral professional appointed by the court or agreed upon by the parties to help co-parents resolve disputes about their children outside of court. A PC has decision-making authority on certain parenting issues and can make binding recommendations, which distinguishes the role from a mediator.

A Parenting Time Expeditor (PTE) is a neutral professional who helps resolve parenting time disputes quickly and cost-effectively. A PTE can interpret existing parenting time orders and make expedited decisions about parenting time disputes. The PTE process is faster and less formal than court, making it well-suited for time-sensitive parenting issues.

The right service depends on your specific circumstances, the nature of your disputes, and whether you have an existing court order. During an initial consultation, I will listen to your situation and help you understand which service — mediation, parenting consultation, or parenting time expeditor — is the best fit. You are also welcome to consult with your attorney.

You can reach me by phone at (507) 469-1020 or by email at [email protected]. You may also use the contact form on this website. I offer an initial consultation to discuss your situation, answer your questions, and determine whether my services are a good fit.

Fees vary depending on the type of service and the complexity of the matter. I will provide fee information during the initial consultation. In most cases, mediation costs are shared equally between the parties, making it a cost-effective alternative to litigation.

My practice is primarily based in Minnesota. Remote mediation sessions via video conference may be available for certain matters. Please contact me to discuss your specific situation and location.