Mediation Services

What distinguishes one mediator from another is their unique skill set and their ability to effectively resolve disputes. Since 2009, Lori Sanford has successfully mediated hundreds of cases, both as a court-appointed mediator and in private practice. Her extensive experience and proven track record make her a trusted choice for resolving conflicts.

What is Mediation?
Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party (the Mediator) assists disputing parties reach a mutually acceptable resolution. Unlike a judge or arbitrator, the mediator does not impose a decision but instead facilitates open communication and negotiation. Each party retains control over the outcome, ensuring that the resolution aligns with their needs and interests.

Key features of mediation include:

  • Confidentiality: Mediation is a private process, allowing parties to speak freely and explore creative solutions without fear of public disclosure.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Mediation fees are agreed upon in advance, and the process is often more affordable than litigation.
  • Efficiency: Mediation typically resolves disputes faster than traditional court proceedings.
  • Flexibility: Parties have full control over the outcome, making mediation a collaborative and empowering process.

Lori conducts most of her mediations via Zoom, offering convenience and accessibility for all parties. However, she is also available for in-person mediations upon request.  Lori also has conducted hybrid proceedings where key witnesses or parties testify in person and experts or nonlocal witnesses testified on Zoom.

In most mediations, parties prefer to be placed in separate breakout or physical rooms and do not interact face-to-face, ensuring a comfortable and productive environment.

Voluntary and Nonbinding

Voluntary and Nonbinding

Mediation is a safe process where no party is bound to an outcome unless all agree to the terms.

Available at Any Time

Available at Any Time

Mediation can occur before filing a lawsuit, during litigation, or even after a judgment to avoid appeals.

Party Participation

Party Participation

Parties select the mediator, design the process, and craft their own terms, ensuring greater control over the outcome.

Speed

Speed

Most mediations are completed in a single day and can be scheduled at the parties’ convenience.

Lower Cost

Lower Cost

Mediation avoids the high costs of prolonged litigation, expert fees, trial expenses, and additional attorney fees.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality

The mediation process is entirely confidential, and settlement terms can remain private if desired.

Flexibility

Flexibility

Parties can include unique terms not available in court judgments, such as payment plans, apologies, letters of recommendation, or non-disparagement agreements.

Preservation of Relationships

Preservation of Relationships

Mediation is less adversarial than trial, helping parties maintain ongoing business or personal relationships.

Narrowing of Issues

Narrowing of Issues

Even if a full settlement isn’t reached, mediation can simplify disputes by narrowing the issues or paving the way for future resolution.

Rates

Our policy is to collect an initial fee deposit prior to the Mediation. A half day of four (4) hours, or a full day of eight (8) hours, at the hourly rate of $550.00 for the Mediation plus a one-hour fee for the setup of the mediation and review of briefs is the total fee deposit required. Mediation fees must be paid in full at least 7 business days before the mediation.

Cases involving more than two parties or cases that involve complex issues or review of voluminous documents may require an additional fee.

Set Up Fee

My fee for set up of the Mediation and Review of Briefs is $550

$550 x 1 hour

Half Day

My estimated professional fee for a half-day is $2,200

$550 x 4 hours ($1,100 each for two parties)

Full Day

My estimated professional fee for a half-day is $4,400

$550 x 8 hours ($2,200 each for two parties)

Additional Time

A charge of $550/hour is charged for any extra time required on the day of mediation or afterwards to resolve case and get signatures on a settlement agreement.

Arbitration