Frequently Asked Questions About Family Mediation

Family mediation is a confidential process where a neutral professional helps parents or family members resolve disagreements about custody, visitation, and child support outside of court. The goal is to reach fair, workable agreements that meet your child's needs.

Mediation is private, faster, and less stressful than a courtroom trial. You stay in control of the outcome instead of leaving decisions to a judge. It's also far less expensive than hiring two attorneys for litigation.

Kelso Mediation helps families throughout Northern Virginia resolve:

• Child custody and visitation schedules
• Child support and financial arrangements
• Co-parenting communication
• Parenting plan modifications

Either parent can request mediation at any time-before, during, or after a divorce or separation. Courts in Virginia often encourage mediation before scheduling custody or support hearings.

Most sessions last between 1.5 to 3 hours. The total number of sessions depends on how many issues need to be resolved and how willing both parents are to cooperate.

If mediation doesn't result in an agreement, you can still go to court. However, most families find that mediation reduces conflict and helps narrow the issues before any court hearing.

Once both parties agree and sign the mediation agreement, it can be filed with the court and incorporated into your custody or divorce order, making it legally enforceable.

1. Make a list of the issues you'd like to discuss
2. Bring any relevant documents (custody agreements, financials, schedules)
3. Be ready to listen and think about what works best for your child

Our mediator has over 20 years of experience in juvenile and family law, is a certified Guardian ad Litem, a state-certified mediator, and has completed the Harvard Mediation Intensive Program.

Yes. We serve families throughout Vienna, Fairfax, Oakton, Merrifield, McLean, and the greater Northern Virginia region, both in person and online.