I offer two options for initial consultations. The 20-minute meet-and-greet option and the 90-minute introduction provide two options for an initial consultation with me. You may choose the one that better corresponds to the level of detail you prefer.
If you are still in the "exploring options" or "seeing what it will involve" stages of your decision-making process, I've made it easy for you to answer those questions with information already on this website.
Once you read the preparatory information on this website and have moved past the initial exploratory stage and are ready to begin mediation within a week or two, it is the appropriate time to schedule a consultation.
Please wait to schedule a consultation until you have made the decision to divorce and are ready to begin mediation right away.
Please note that neither format involves attempting to resolve the substantive issues of the mediation at the consultation. To address the child-related and financial questions, I ask that you wait until you begin mediation following the consultation, if you choose to proceed. Please be assured, however, that the mediation process will address a broad spectrum of topics aiming to result in a complete and thorough Marital Settlement Agreement.
Beaverton/Portland Divorce Mediation Consultation
Last Updated: October 11, 2026
The main purpose of the 20-minute meet-and-greet is for the mediator and the potential clients to get to know each other and to understand anything about the mediation process that is not already on this website. I have significant materials on this site already to understand the process, fees, and duration, as those have consistently been the most common questions potential clients ask.
The specific issues that you need to mediate will not be discussed in detail at a meet-and-greet, except to briefly identify them.
Free 20-Minute Meet-and-Greet
The first 30-minute block is free of charge.
Its content is similar to the 20-minute meet-and-greet session (see above for details), except that it allows for some additional time to ask preliminary questions.
The second 30-minute block is also free of charge when you commit to the 90-minute introduction.
You may share the specifics of your case. I will ask which components of the mediation process apply to you -- whether you have children under 21, your assets, your debts, your income, and other related details.
I will begin to present possible concerns and questions that clients often have about each element, so that you have a framework to address your needs in mediation without the conflict of discussing them at the introduction.
Only the third 30-minute block is billed time ($135).
We will continue to discuss your particular needs, although the introduction is not the setting in which to begin resolving the issues of the mediation. I will discuss with you the likely timeframe of mediation based on the needs you have identified.
I will share with you the preparation that you should expect to allow yourself time to complete if you begin mediation with me. The preparation process for mediation is not especially time-consuming, but the particular "to do" list is different for each couple.
90-Minute Introduction with Free First Hour
Do both parties need to attend the consultation? Yes. The meet-and-greets and introductions are offered in the same format that mediation sessions will be conducted -- with both parties present.
Must both parties be in the same location for the consultation? If you are meeting in person, the two parties will be together in the room with me. If you are meeting via Zoom, you may meet in the same location or separate locations, however you prefer.
Do we need to have filed for divorce before our consultation? No. In fact, almost none of my clients have already filed before they come to mediation. My clients file at the end of mediation after all outstanding issues have been resolved.
Do we need to prepare documents before our consultation? No. Actually, besides bringing your concerns and questions about the mediation process and how it can meet your needs, I suggest you not prepare anything specific, for two reasons:
I have a streamlined but thorough approach to discovery. I ask for only the documents I believe will be useful to review. I do not require documents just because the Oregon Revised Statutes allow you to request them from the other party. Certainly, you may do so if you wish, but I will likely have more modest requests for documents once you begin mediation. Because your time is valuable, I do not want you to have to gather documents in advance that may turn out to be unnecessary.
Mediation is a collaborative process. When one person prepares significant information and provides it to me or brings it to the initial consultation, it often puts the other party on the defensive and sets a litigious or overly formal tone, even unintentionally. I will ensure that you have a thorough process by directing the discovery and facilitating the discussions that lead to proposals and alternatives.
However, if you choose me as your mediator after the consultation, I will advise you as to the documents you should prepare before the first session. I have a streamlined approach to discovery -- enough information to allow me to apply my financial expertise for your benefit, but not so many documents that it becomes overwhelming or starts to seem superfluous.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mediation Consultations
Matthew House J.D. | Divorce Mediation
3800 SW Cedar Hills Blvd., Suite 271
Beaverton, OR 97005
(503) 643-5284
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Matthew House's practice is neutral, limited to divorce mediation and financial analysis. He holds a law degree but is not a member of the Oregon State Bar. No information provided on 503.legal constitutes legal advice. The use of this website does not form a mediator-client relationship.
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