Testimonials

I have referred many clients to Oliver Ross for mediation and have consistently received great feedback. Most say that Dr. Ross is compassionate, fair, and thorough in all of his work. Some have said that he has had a remarkable calming effect on their relationship. I now encourage everyone who might be considering divorce to call Oliver first!
Dennis Hunter, Ph.D.

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Family Mediation FAQs

Disagreements among siblings and with other family members about inheritance, family business, or other familial situations can be very stressful and hurtful. They often result in long-term resentment and severed relationships.

Family mediation through Out-of-Court Solutions provides a highly effective, collaborative, and inexpensive method for family members to make informed decisions that are mutually beneficial and restore relationships.


Frequently Asked Questions About Family Mediation


What is family mediation?

Family members who are in conflict meet together with an impartial professional mediator to identify and resolve disagreements, misunderstandings, and disputes.

The first step is a free telephonic consultation with one of our mediators. The next step is an in-person or telephonic interview with each person so that the mediator can learn about and send everyone a letter summarizing the issues, concerns and goals to be discussed during mediation. The third step is a mediation session where everyone works together towards reaching mutually beneficial agreements.

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What is the Situational™ approach to mediation?

Originated by Oliver Ross, JD, PhD, the founder of Out-of-Court Solutions, the Situational™ approach to mediation is an advanced method of mediation that has proven highly effective in resolving disputes quickly, caringly and inexpensively.

The Situational™ approach requires that the mediator adapt the mediation process to conform to each particular situation. It also requires that the mediator assure that everyone is heard, makes fully informed decisions, and enters into sensible agreements.

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Who participates in family mediation?

The family members who are involved in the dispute maintain control and decide who should participate. They also decide what matters will be discussed and whether any other colleagues or professionals will be involved; for example, a mental health professional, attorney, and/or accountant.

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What does the mediator do?

With our backgrounds in law, business and psychology, and certification in Situational™ mediation, we help family members communicate and negotiate effectively, explore options and alternatives for resolution, and understand the legal, financial and organizational issues involved in their dispute. Upon resolution and when requested, we prepare action plans, memoranda of understanding, and other types of settlement documents.

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What if I want an independent attorney’s help?

At any stage of mediation and/or before signing any agreement, you can consult with an independent attorney. With Out-of-Court Solutions, your use of an independent attorney is an option, not a requirement.

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How does family mediation differ from court-based proceedings?

Family members keep control – rather than surrendering it to attorneys or a judge. Unlike stressful, win-lose court-based proceedings, mediation takes place in a private, confidential and informal environment.

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How much does family mediation cost?

Family mediation is inexpensive compared to using lawyers and the courts. Lawyers typically charger retainer fees ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 or more for each person -- just to get started!

With Out-of-Court Solutions, workplace colleagues do not pay a retainer fee, can divide the cost, pay as they go and avoid costly legal tactics, thereby saving thousands of dollars.

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How do I get other questions answered?

Arrange for a complimentary consultation by calling Out-of-Court Solutions at
(602) 404-1500 | (520) 792-1682 or click here to contact us by email.

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How do the benefits of family mediation compare to using lawyers and the courts?

arizona family mediation

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Arrange for a free consultation by calling Out-of-Court Solutions
(602) 404-1500 | (520) 792-1682 or
click here to contact us by email.