Brief Mediation Orientation
Please click play below to listen to a brief mediation orientation produced by the Maryland Court system and/or the Virginia Mediation Network. While it is not a substitute for the orientation we will provide you it will give you good information on what you might expect of mediation. Please choose one video and then review the content below. Once reviewed, please complete the form below.
Maryland Mediation.
THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE
In Virginia, mediation is a process where both parties will come together and, with the facilitation of the mediator, work toward a communal understanding of the issues at hand and how to possibly resolve such issues. The mediator is here to facilitate the communication and control the process.
Virginia identifies custody in the following code: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title20/chapter6.1/section20-124.1/
Best interest of a child is discussed in: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title20/chapter6.1/section20-124.3/
Questions about the code provided or any other questions regarding custody and its legal effects should be addressed by a licensed and competent attorney.
For a Succesful Mediation
Keep an open mind.
Be willing to “lose” to “win”.
Come ready to discuss the reasons why you are in mediation and how you would like to resolve the matter(s).
Fully read any draft agreement, making sure you pay attention to the terms, length of time, names, dates, etc. to make sure you are signing an agreement which encapsulates exactly what you’ve agreed to.
Be kind and cordial, even if you disagree.
During the Mediation
Keep an open mind.
Be in an area where no one can interrupt you or hear your discussion.
Prior to the mediation, think about and be prepared to present any beginning remark you may have identifying the issues as you see them and how you would like to resolve them.
Be open to hearing the other party(ies).
THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE
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