Question 1

What should I expect on the day of mediation?

Accepted Answer

On the day of mediation, you and your attorney will be placed in a private room—either a physical conference room/office or a virtual Zoom breakout room—completely separate from the other party. You will not have to interact with them directly. I will handle all communication by going back and forth between the rooms to exchange offers and information. Most sessions conclude by the end of the business day; however, we may occasionally extend into the evening if we are close to reaching an agreement.

Question 2

What should I expect during an arbitration proceeding?

Accepted Answer

Arbitration functions like a formal bench trial and takes place in an office or conference room.  Your lawyer will handle all strategy, evidence, witness examinations, and legal arguments. Because family law matters are deeply personal, a private arbitration setting, unlike a bench trial, keeps your finances and parenting disputes out of a public courtroom. The arbitration proceeding can last from one to several days depending on the case's complexity. Afterward, I will review the evidence and issue a binding written ruling (an award) at a later date.

Question 3

Are the proceedings private?

Accepted Answer

Mediation:  It is a confidential, private process and recording is not permitted.  However, confidentiality does not protect admissions of child or elder abuse, statements regarding a planned crime, or formal misconduct trials handled by the North Carolina State Bar or Dispute Resolution Commission.Arbitration:  Presentation of evidence is a private process.  Permission to record the hearing rests with the arbitrator.

Question 4

Do you only mediate or arbitrate court cases?

Accepted Answer

No, I am happy to assist with private disputes, as well as cases filed within the court system.

Question 5

What is the mediation rate?

Accepted Answer

$250 per hour [billed in quarter hour increments] Administrative Fee:  $175Fees are typically divided equally between the parties unless otherwise agreed.   Payment is due at the conclusion of the day, unless alternative arrangements are made in advance.  Payment may be made by cash, check, debit card or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover).

Question 6

What is the arbitration rate?

Accepted Answer

$350 per hour [billed in quarter hour increments] Administrative Fee:  $300Fees are typically divided equally between the parties unless otherwise agreed.   Payment is due at the conclusion of the arbitration, unless alternative arrangements are made in advance.  Payment may be made by cash, check, debit card or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover).

Question 7

Is there a travel charge?

Accepted Answer

Travel charges apply only when travel exceeds 40 miles from the Guilford County Courthouse, 201 S. Eugene Street, Greensboro, NC.  Travel time is billed at $100 per hour plus milage at the current State rate.

Question 8

Will you provide the parties with legal advice during a mediation session?

Accepted Answer

As a neutral and impartial third party, I do not provide legal advice.  If you are represented by an attorney, your attorney will advise you.  If you are not represented by an attorney, you are encouraged to consult independent counsel.

Question 9

What happens if we reach an agreement in mediation?

Accepted Answer

If you are represented by an attorney, your attorney(s) will prepare a formal agreement for your signatures.  If neither party is represented by an attorney, then upon request, I will prepare a document outlining your agreed terms for you or an attorney to prepare a formal agreement for your signatures.

Question 10

What happens if we do not reach an agreement in mediation?

Accepted Answer

In court ordered mediations, I will prepare a report of impasse and file it with the court; your case will then proceed through the court process.  In private mediations, the process concludes without settlement.

Frequently Asked Questions