Frequently Asked
Questions

Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution approach that allows opposing parties to come together in good faith, before an unbiased neutral, in attempt to amicably resolve their case. Mediations commonly take place across a 6-stage process starting with pre-mediation preparation, introduction, presentation of the disputes, the identification of the issues and concerns, exploration of solutions, and finally, a conclusion. Any civil case can be brought to mediation. Mediation is an option to consider prior to a lawsuit being filed.

Mediation and therapy are two completely different processes. In the state of Georgia, a Family Mediator would first train and meet qualifications to become a Civil Mediator and would then go on to train as a Domestic Mediator. Unlike with therapy, no clinical interventions, diagnosis, or therapeutic approaches are used in the mediation process. Instead, mediations are designed to be brief and facilitative, where the mediator utilizes specific techniques to help the parties move towards an agreement. Therapists and divorce attorneys commonly train to become mediators, but do not offer legal advice or apply therapeutic approaches to the process.

At Georgia Family & Mediation, mediations are a standard $350 per hour and a two-hour minimum per booking. Civil mediations are commonly resolved in a few hours. Divorce and family mediations might vary, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of items needing settlement.

Providing that the parties in a mediation have arrived at an agreement, the mediator (or in some cases, the attorneys of the parties) will draw up an agreement that is to be signed prior to the closing out of the mediation. In the event that the dispute is not settled, the case might proceed to arbitration or trial before a judge or jury.