Flaws in the "Free First Hour" Mediation Consultation ... and How to Do it Right

There are a few mediators in the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area who offer a "free consultation." I am one of them.

Free services can be very useful, but only if both sides -- the provider and the recipient -- have reasonable expectations. Too often, supposedly "free" services turn out to be of little value and result in wasted time and, ultimately, wasted money. Here is what I believe:
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• Having a "first hour free and then decide at the end whether to stay for a second hour (and pay full price if you do)" approach means two things: You won't be as prepared for the second hour, and you'll pay full price for it anyway.

• You deserve to get to know your mediator, and you shouldn't have to pay to figure out if someone is a good fit for you personally and in terms of communication. That's why I offer a free 30-minute meet-and-greet call via Zoom. I believe that you'll find me personable, competent, and focused on your needs, as clients have found throughout my 21 years of practice in suburban Portland.

• I do not take up much, if any, of the time at your consultation explaining how mediation works, what my process consists of, what a mediation session is like, or how I can help your teen and preteen children. I have posted all of that online for you to review in advance. That way, the face-to-face time can be spent on clarifications and follow-up questions, not building from the ground floor.

When you entrust your mediation matter to me, you get my comprehensive skill set:

Family Law Mediator

Family Law Financial Analyst

Parenting Plan Expert

Teen-Inclusive Mediator

Oregon Notary Public

If you would like to learn more about how I can apply my experience to your particular needs, please consider scheduling a consultation.

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