Eight tips to choosing the right mediator
How Do You Spell
M - E - D - I - A - T - O-R ?
Eight Tips to Help You Make Your Choice
Makes it affordable. Look for a mediator who offers a free consultation. Be aware of hidden costs. Will you be charged for travel time or phone calls in between sessions? Is there any flexibility in rates that you might qualify for?
Empowers You. You want a mediator who will validate your opinions regarding what you each believe is fair and empowers you to envision for yourselves practical and creative solutions that feel comfortable and fair to both parties. Ideal situations are rare but what you create can be something each side can live with.
Dedicated Neutral Partner. You want a mediator who is dedicated to keeping a level playing field. Someone who makes certain the rights of both you and the other party are protected. A mediator who can help you work together to draft a thorough agreement that provides lasting solutions for both parties.
Informs You. You want a mediator who will educate you on how the law applies to your particular facts and circumstances. The more knowledge you have the more you are empowered to make your own informed decisions.
Approach is Compassionate, Personalized and Practical. You want a mediator who understands how stressful and overwhelming legal matters can be. A mediator who is able to develop rapport – a relationship of understanding, empathy, and trust – with both parties. Someone who can also practically assess the situation and help you create a plan together that’s personalized to meet your unique needs and goals.
Targeted trouble-shooter. You want a mediator who targets your focus on the present and future, so you’re not dwelling on who did what to whom. Someone who compassionately moves you from positions of combat to ones of cooperation where problems can be solved effectively and creatively.
Organized and Experienced. You want a mediator who is has an organized process so that precious time and money is not lost. Look for a mediator who has a proven track record in the field of mediation AND has experience in resolving disputes in the particular Civil or Family matter you face. Someone who has the business, legal, financial, and psychological expertise needed to help you resolve your issue so you can get back to your life.
Reputation is Impeccable. Look for a mediator who can give you references from professional colleagues as well as clients that attest to his/her character and professional expertise. Then trust your instincts. You are the best judge of whether or not you feel comfortable with a particular mediator’s personality and approach.
Learn more about Tom Caprio’s experience and approach or call him at 561.310.2141 if you have other questions. He is ready and able to guide you confidently through this challenging time.
