Mediation

In mediation, a specially trained mediator facilitates negotiations among the parties in an attempt to reach settlement through the exchange of information and private meetings.  Mediation is a flexible process and the mediator does not adjudicate between the parties, or give legal advice, or hand down judgments.

All communications made throughout the mediation process is confidential, exempt from discovery, and inadmissible as evidence in the underlying cause of action unless all parties agree otherwise in writing. Evidence with respect to settlement agreements shall be admissible in proceedings to enforce the settlement. Subject to the foregoing, the mediator may not disclose any information obtained during mediation.
At mediation, the parties have a unique opportunity to discuss their differences and control the outcome. Until there is a signed agreement between the parties, the mediation will have no binding effect and the parties are free to walk away at any stage.

Patricia is a certified mediator and received her interdisciplinary collaborative practice training and is a fellow of the Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois and International Academy of Collaborative Professionals.  Patricia has successfully assisted her clients to “think outside the box” and to create unique and effective ways to resolve their current dispute(s).