Neutral Environment – The parties meet with a mediator who acts as a neutral third party. The mediator’s role is to assist both parties in reaching a mutual agreement, and to help the parties generate solutions when they reach an impasse. The mediator does not “work” for either party and cannot favor the interests of one party over another. The process is non–adversarial and respectful, and the mediator knows how to keep communication on track.

Voluntary – A party can terminate and leave a mediation at any time for any reason. The purpose of mediation being voluntary is so no one feels intimidated or coerced into agreeing on a resolution.

Client Controlled and Mutual Resolution – The parties have complete decision-making power, meaning the parties are in control of the process and the outcome. No one knows the situation better than the parties involved, so it makes sense to have the parties be the ones who decide what solution works best for them. The mediation process gives parties an opportunity to tell their story and be empowered in creating a resolution. The mediator does not impose solutions on the parties, but rather guides the parties in finding mutually beneficial solutions. Research shows that parties are generally more satisfied and are more likely to comply with mutually agreed upon solutions because they feel more ownership over the decision-making process.

Cost Effective and Timely – Mediation is a more cost effective means to resolving a conflict, as opposed to litigation. Because the parties are in control of what happens in the mediation and the outcome, they are much more likely to obtain results quicker. In family law, mediation sessions usually consist of an initial session which lasts 1/2 – 1 hour for each party, and one joint session which is usually scheduled for 3 hours.

Confidential – The mediation process is entirely confidential. Anything that comes up in mediation stays private, even if the parties are unable to reach an agreement. A mediator cannot be called to testify about what went on during a mediation session. Mediation discussions and all material developed for a mediation are not admissible in any subsequent court or contested proceedings, except for a finalized and signed mediated agreement for enforcement purposes. Since the process is confidential, a party going through litigation loses nothing by trying mediation.

As the first blog, I want to introduce you to Hightower Reff Law.  Hightower Law was started in April 2009 by Tracy Hightower-Henne and for the first two years operated solely by Tracy.  Tracy has enjoyed accepting many types of cases but as family law cases have increased, she has become skilled in all types of family law cases and now focuses on divorce, modification, child custody and child support disputes, paternity actions, and juvenile cases.

Hightower Law joined Susan Reff Law to make Hightower Reff Law in 2012. Susan Reff specializes in all criminal defense matters.

Hightower Reff Law also accepts various other types of cases including contract disputes, corporate formations, and bankruptcy.

In 2011, Kristin Contryman joined Hightower Law and stayed with Hightower Reff Law.  Kristin will also be working on family law cases.  Kristin brings a mediation background to Hightower Reff Law.  Kristin will focus on family law and mediation.

This blog will be updated often with news on Hightower Reff Law and the general legal front. Please check back often and always feel free to comment.