Questions, answered plainly.
What mediation is, how it works, what it costs, and what to expect—before you ever pick up the phone.
What is mediation?
Mediation is a private, structured process in which a neutral third party helps the parties reach a voluntary agreement. The mediator does not decide the outcome, take sides, or provide legal advice—the mediator provides the structure that helps a stalled dispute move toward resolution.
Is mediation confidential?
Yes. All parties sign a release agreeing to strict confidentiality before the session begins. What is discussed stays in the room and does not become part of any public record.
How long does mediation take?
Most matters are scheduled as a single session lasting from two hours to a full day. Parties are asked to commit to staying until the matter is resolved in one sitting; follow-up sessions are scheduled only if necessary.
How much does mediation cost?
Services are offered on an hourly or flat-fee basis depending on the complexity and structure of the matter. In nearly every case, mediation costs a fraction of what litigation would.
Do I need a lawyer to participate?
No. Parties are free to consult independent attorneys before the mediation and may bring them to the session by mutual agreement, or attend alone and consult counsel by phone before signing any agreement.
What types of disputes are suitable for mediation?
Business and partnership disputes, family and estate matters, succession and ownership transitions, and many other disputes—particularly where the parties want to avoid litigation, preserve relationships, or maintain confidentiality.
Is the agreement legally binding?
When all parties accept the terms, they sign the agreement, and it may be submitted to a court for entry where applicable. Mediation First does not provide legal advice; parties are encouraged to consult independent counsel before signing any final agreement.
Where do mediation sessions take place?
In person in Louisville, Kentucky and Tampa Bay, Florida, with travel available nationwide and internationally—or virtually via Zoom anywhere in the English-speaking world.
What if the other party will not participate?
Mediation is voluntary. When one party refers a matter, Mark contacts the other party or parties to determine whether they are willing to participate—without discussing the substance of the dispute, in order to preserve neutrality.
How do we get started?
One party calls the office or completes the contact form, sharing only the nature of the dispute. From there, Mark confirms the other party's willingness to participate and schedules a session.
Still have a question worth a real conversation?
A brief, confidential call can answer it—and determine whether mediation is the right next step.