Scheduling A Mediation Appointment

For most mediations, I typically schedule two hour appointments with parties. Longer and shorter sessions may occur depending on the complexity, the issues, and needs of each party. Therefore, the scheduling depends on the parties needs. All day mediations can be scheduled if it meets the party's best interests. Mediations range from one session to several sessions. Less complex mediations will be scheduled based upon the predicted time needed to complete the mediation. Sometimes this may be two hours, or longer as needed.

For Divorce mediation, I typically schedule two hour appointments. This allows each session to be productive and allows time for each party to really accomplish their goals for the mediation. Typically couples will come to agreements on entire topics within a three hour session. Examples of topics include the parenting plan and schedule, communication plan, division of assets, child support, maintenance, etc. Of course the time needed depends on the complexity and the level of cooperation between parties. Divorce mediation ranges from one session to usually not more than ten sessions. The average number of hours for most divorce mediations is 6-12 hours, thus typically costing each party $450-$900 total.

Sometimes longer sessions, such as three hours, allow couples to leave feeling satisfied that they were able to accomplish an enormous amount in a short period of time. This allows couples to feel content that they are at least moving quickly through an often painful process. However, two hour sessions may work better with some couples, due to their schedules, their endurance, and ability to tolerate their spouse.

Some divorce mediators schedule brief divorce mediations sessions. This obviously works well for them, but I find that most couples just "want to be done with it." By scheduling two hour divorce mediation appointments, the process often moves along more efficiently.

Shorter sessions or longer sessions can be scheduled when requested, if there are just a few items still left to resolve for the mediation to be completed. Less complex mediations will be scheduled based upon the predicted time needed to complete the mediation. Sometimes this may be two hours, or as needed.

Before the Mediation:
Before the mediations begin I will typically contact each party's attorneys, if parties have legal representation. I will interview each party on the telephone. Typically, I will ask each party to write a summary of the conflict from their own point of view.

Mediation services are not billed but are collected at the time of service or in advance:
Since payment is due at the time of service, parties typically chose to pay conveniently by phone using a credit card which reserves the appointment time. I find getting some of these logistics out of the way up front allows parties to focus better on the mediation.

Typically payments are due at the time of service, at the beginning of the mediation based upon the number of hours scheduled for your mediation appointment. I do not demand a retainer as many mediation practices do.

Contacting Me:
The best way to contact me is to leave me a voicemail at: (970) 631-2960. I will typically return calls in the evenings, unless I have any breaks during the day. You may also contact me by email at DrScottPoland@gmail.com. The fastest way to obtain a response is to leave me a voicemail, whereas I check my voicemail regularly throughout the day, however, I typically read emails at the end of each day.