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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Elder Care Mediation in Phoenix Scottsdale and Tucson
ElderCare Mediation FAQs

Elder Dispute Resolutions Frequently Asked Questions for Families

The changes and transitions common to elders and their families often result in conflict. When unattended, these conflicts cause dissention and damage.

ElderCare mediation through Out-of-Court Solutions provides a highly effective, collaborative, and inexpensive method for families to make informed decisions and enter into agreements about the best interests of elders and their family members.


Frequently Asked Questions About ElderCare Mediation


What is ElderCare mediation?

Family members work together with an impartial professional mediator to identify and resolve all of the financial, familial, and care-giving issues involved in fostering the best interests of an elder and each individual family member.

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 family member 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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What types of matters are mediated?

    • Power of Attorney disputes
    • Probate issues
    • Property disputes
    • Shared responsibility disagreements

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Who participates in ElderCare mediation?

The elder and family members decide together who will participate. They also decide what matters will be discussed and whether any other professionals will be involved; for example, an accountant, attorney, physician, nurse, geriatric social worker and/or clergyperson.

Any family member who lives in a different city or finds it difficult to appear in person may participate via telephone and/or video conferencing.

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What does the mediator do?

With our backgrounds in law and psychology, and certification in Situational™ mediation, we help family members navigate the complex emotional, financial and legal issues often involved in making decisions about the best interests of an elder. We also facilitate effective communications and negotiations, proffer options and alternatives for resolving issues, and provide legal, financial, tax and other information – all in furtherance of the goal of assuring that everyone makes fully informed decisions. Once everything is decided, we prepare legally binding settlement agreements and other legal 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 if you want additional information, support, or advice. With Out-of-Court Solutions, your use of an independent attorney is an option, not a requirement.

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How does ElderCare mediation differ from court-based proceedings?

Family members, including the elder, keep control -- rather than surrendering it to attorneys or a judge. We help family members make informed decisions in accordance with their particular needs and standards. Unlike stressful, win-lose court-based proceedings, mediation takes place in a private, confidential and informal environment.

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How much does ElderCare mediation cost?

Elder 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 family member -- just to get started!

With Out-of-Court Solutions, family members 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?

Call 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 ElderCare mediation compare to using lawyers and the courts?

Arizona Elder Care

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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.