Portland, OR family law attorney Katie Goss talks about how mediation works in divorce cases. She points out that mediation or another form of alternative dispute resolution is typically required in most family law cases in Oregon, particularly those involving children. Mediation can take several different formats. Many counties in Oregon offer court-based mediation services to help parents resolve issues related to custody and parenting time. One of the main advantages of these services is that they are provided either free of charge or for a nominal fee.

Another option is working with a private mediator. A benefit of private mediation is the ability to include attorneys in the process, which is not available in court-provided mediation. However, involving attorneys in private mediation means the parties are responsible for both attorney fees and the mediator’s fees.

Regardless of the format, the goal of mediation is for the parties to collaboratively develop solutions and compromises to their issues in order to avoid going to court. Mediation is voluntary, and no one can be forced into a specific agreement. The ultimate objective is to reach a resolution that allows the parties to maintain control over the outcome, while avoiding the costs, uncertainties, and potential risks associated with litigation.