Frequently Asked Questions
About Moonstone Mediation
What is mediation?
Mediation is a confidential process in which a neutral third party helps individuals or groups resolve disputes through guided conversation and negotiation. The goal is to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
How is mediation different from going to court?
Mediation is private, faster, and less adversarial than litigation. Unlike court, mediation empowers both parties to control the outcome instead of leaving the decision to a judge.
What types of disputes can be mediated?
Common disputes include family disagreements, business or workplace conflicts, landlord-tenant issues, neighbor disputes, and contract disagreements. If both parties are willing to participate, almost any conflict can be mediated.
Do both parties have to agree to mediate?
Yes. Mediation is a voluntary process. Both parties must agree to participate in good faith for mediation to be effective.
What kinds of mediation services does Moonstone Mediation offer?
We offer family, civil, small business, and community mediation services. Sessions are tailored to your needs and are available virtually.
Who are your mediators?
Our mediators are professionally trained, certified, and committed to creating a respectful, productive environment for conflict resolution.
What makes Moonstone Mediation different from other services?
We focus on clarity, compassion, and efficiency. Our goal is to help you reach a practical resolution without unnecessary stress or legal expense. We also offer flexible scheduling and fixed-rate pricing.
Scheduling & Payment
How do I book a mediation session?
You can schedule a session directly through our website on the Services or Appointments page. Choose your package and preferred time slot to get started.
What are your fees?
We offer flat-rate pricing for 2-hour, 3-hour, and 4-hour mediation sessions. Rates are transparent and listed on our Services page.
Can the cost be split between parties? Yes, the cost can be split between parties. Please indicate your payment arrangement on the intake form, and a separate payment link will be sent to each party accordingly. Payment from all parties must be received to confirm the session.
Do you offer any payment plans? You can use Klarna to split the cost of your session into manageable payments. Simply select Klarna at checkout when completing your payment through our secure Stripe link.
Please note: Klarna payment plans are subject to approval by Klarna and may not be available to all users.
When is payment due?
Payment must be received no later than 24 hours before your scheduled session. Unpaid sessions will be automatically canceled.
What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
Sessions must be canceled or rescheduled at least 24 hours in advance for a refund. Late cancellations are non-refundable.
Privacy Policy
Where can I read your privacy policy? You can read our privacy policy here.
Preparing for Mediation
What should I bring to my mediation session?
Bring any documents relevant to your dispute (contracts, emails, bills, agreements, etc.), a list of key concerns, and an open mind.
How should I prepare for mediation?
Think about what you want to resolve, what outcomes you can live with, and what matters most to you. Be ready to listen as much as you speak.
Can I bring a lawyer or support person to mediation?
Yes. You may bring a lawyer, advocate, or support person with you. Please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.
What happens if the other party doesn’t show up?
If the other party is absent without notice, the session may be rescheduled or canceled. Please refer to our cancellation policy for details.
During the Mediation
What should I expect during the session?
The mediator will begin with introductions and ground rules. Each party will have a chance to speak. The mediator will guide discussion, clarify points, and help both sides move toward a resolution.
How long will the mediation take?
Session length depends on the package you select (2, 3, or 4 hours). Some disputes can be resolved quickly, while others may require more time or follow-up sessions.
Will we be in the same room as the other party?
You may be in the same virtual room, or in separate breakout rooms, depending on the nature of the dispute and your comfort level.
What if we don’t reach an agreement?
If no agreement is reached, you may choose to try another session, pursue other options like legal action, or simply walk away. Mediation does not obligate either party to settle.
After the Mediation
What do I receive after the session?
You’ll receive an email with a written summary of any agreements reached, a next steps sheet, and a feedback form.
What happens if we reach an agreement?
The mediator will help formalize your agreement in writing. You can choose to make it legally binding or submit it to a court, if necessary.
Can the agreement be enforced in court?
Yes. If both parties sign the agreement, it can be enforced like any other contract. If it’s part of a court-ordered mediation, it may also be entered into the court record.
Legal and Confidentiality
Is mediation confidential?
Yes. Mediation is a private process. Nothing said in mediation can be used in court, except in very limited circumstances (such as threats of violence).
Do mediators give legal advice?
No. Mediators are neutral facilitators and do not represent either party. You may consult a lawyer before, during, or after mediation.
Will the information shared in mediation be used in court?
No. Mediation discussions are protected by confidentiality laws and cannot be disclosed in court unless all parties agree.
Do you provide mediation services in all 50 states? We offer private mediation services in all 50 states. For court-ordered mediation, we serve all California counties except Amador, Kings, Lassen, and Madera.