Mediation

Mediation is a form of dispute resolution which is highly successful most of the time. The parties hire a neutral mediator who acts as an intermediary to help the parties communicate with each other. This is usually a mandatory process. The parties provide me with position papers outlining their best case scenario, and also provide me with any key documents. I may meet privately with the lawyers beforehand. We then have a joint session, scheduled in advance, where all parties meet together and have the ability to explain their case orally. After the joint session, I meet privately with both sides to find out where the hot spots are and why the case hasn’t settled beforehand. After the mediation is over, I file a report with the court which simply says whether the case settled or not. KEEP IN MIND THIS ENTIRE PROCESS IS COMPLETELY CONFIDENTIAL.

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Arbitration

Arbitration is another method of dispute resolution. It resembles a mini trial. The parties hire me to act as a judge and decision maker. All sides present evidence through witnesses and documents and I make evidentiary rulings as needed. When all evidence has been submitted, I prepare a written decision which is generally binding on the parties. My role remains as completely neutral and I am not on anybody’s side. Please also keep in mind that when I make a decision, it is not a split the difference ruling. Generally, there is a winner and a loser.

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Case Review

This section is primarily for the lawyers. I have provided case review services my entire career. A file gets assigned to me to read and analyze, pointing out strengths and weaknesses. I generally prepare a confidential report directed to the person or company who hired me. This is also a situation where I tell you exactly what I think, no holds barred.

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trial preparation

Throughout the time I have practiced in Maine, there has been one glaring problem that young or new lawyers face. They have a very, very difficult time getting jury trial experience. Many lawyers have never stepped foot in a courtroom. I am willing to help anybody get a case ready for trial. I have a specific method that I have refined over the years, but this process is time consuming and may involve spending several days together. We will organize your file a certain way and I can teach you how to track your information so you can find it when you need it. We will develop an opening statement and witness outlines. We can work on a way to undercut your opponent's case so you have a confident understanding of not only your case, but your opponent’s as well. Know thy enemy.

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fees and costs

I charge $325 per hour which is generally split between the parties equally. I rely 100% on the lawyers to pay me, not the clients. My mediations generally run for a morning session, an afternoon session or a full day session. I charge a two hour minimum for morning or afternoon bookings, and a four hour minimum for all day bookings. I also charge a relatively nominal $100 admin fee for the work involved before and after a mediation takes place. A bill is generated after all work is done. There is generally no charge for cancellations unless I have spent a significant amount of time preparing.