UMA ADR stands for United Mediation and Arbitration – Alternative Dispute Resolution. We provide mediation services that allow people to resolve disputes outside of the courtroom. Our goal is to help both sides reach an agreement that works for everyone without the stress, cost, and public exposure of a trial.
We handle a wide range of disputes, not just divorce. Examples include:
Family law matters such as divorce, custody, parenting time, and child support
Civil disputes, including contract disagreements and property issues
Business disputes such as partnership conflicts and commercial contract breakdowns
Landlord–tenant disagreements
Workplace or employment disputes
Neighbor or property line issues
Other personal or financial conflicts where both sides want a resolution without trial
Mediation is a structured process where a neutral third party, called a mediator, helps both sides discuss their issues privately and constructively. Unlike a judge, the mediator does not impose a decision. Instead, the mediator helps each side clarify concerns, explore options, and work toward a settlement that both can accept. If an agreement is reached, it is written down and submitted to the court for approval, which allows you to avoid a trial.
Yes. Mediation only works if both clients agree to use the same mediator and participate in good faith. One side cannot force the other to use a mediator. Once both clients agree, UMA ADR helps coordinate the process and ensures that the chosen mediator is neutral, professional, and acceptable to both sides.
Privacy – Court cases become public record. Mediation is confidential, and what is said in mediation cannot be used in court.
Control – You and the other party decide the outcome, not a judge.
Lower cost – Mediation is generally much less expensive than a full trial.
Faster resolution – Courts can take months or years. Mediation can often be scheduled in less than a week and resolved in a single session.
Reduced stress – Mediation is less formal and adversarial than litigation, making it easier to preserve dignity and relationships.
Mediators charge per party, per hour. For example, if the fee is 300 per party per hour, each side pays 300 per hour. Most sessions are booked in blocks of time, with an average mediation lasting around three hours. UMA ADR will clearly explain all costs before you commit.
All mediations through UMA ADR are held virtually via Zoom. Each client is placed in a private breakout room, and the mediator moves between the rooms to facilitate discussion. This allows you to speak openly, knowing that conversations are confidential.
In most cases, mediation can be scheduled quickly. While court hearings may take months, UMA ADR can often arrange sessions in less than a week, depending on the availability of both parties and the mediator.
If mediation does not result in an agreement, your case may continue through the court system. Even when mediation does not fully resolve every issue, it often narrows the areas of dispute and makes any future court proceedings more focused and efficient.
Once you and the other party reach an agreement, the mediator will draft a settlement document. This agreement is then submitted to the judge handling your case. Once approved, it becomes legally binding, just like any other court order.
Mediators are selected by mutual agreement. Both clients must agree to use the same mediator. UMA ADR provides access to trained neutrals and guides you through the selection process. If a judge orders mediation, the court may provide a list of approved mediators, but the final choice must still be acceptable to both parties.
Mediators working with UMA ADR are trained in conflict resolution and meet the requirements set by state and local courts. Many are licensed attorneys or professionals with advanced training in mediation. All are neutral and committed to helping both parties reach a fair outcome.
You are not required to have a lawyer present, but many clients choose to consult with an attorney before or after the session to review agreements. Mediation does not replace legal advice, and it can be helpful to have an attorney ensure your interests are fully protected.
The length of mediation depends on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of both parties to negotiate. Some disputes are resolved in a single three-hour session, while others may require multiple sessions.
Mediation is voluntary unless ordered by a court. If one party refuses, the case will likely proceed in court. UMA ADR cannot force participation, but we encourage clients to consider mediation as a faster, less expensive, and more private alternative to trial.
Yes. Mediation is designed for situations where parties are in conflict. Even if you cannot sit in the same room, mediation can still work because the mediator communicates with each side separately in private breakout rooms.
In many cases, yes. If both parties agree, you may have a support person present for moral support, though they typically do not participate directly. Attorneys may also attend. UMA ADR will confirm the ground rules before the session.
Mediation is not limited to two parties. It can include multiple individuals or organizations. For example, disputes between business partners, neighbors, or extended family members can all be addressed through mediation.
If an agreement is reached, the mediator prepares a written settlement that is submitted to the court for approval (if there is an active case). If no agreement is reached, the case continues in court. Either way, mediation often helps clarify the issues and reduce the cost and time of litigation.
Yes. While mediation is focused on resolving a specific conflict, many clients find that the process teaches communication and problem-solving skills that help them work together better in the future. This is especially valuable in ongoing relationships such as co-parenting, business partnerships, or community matters.
You can begin by submitting a case directly through our website. You will select whether your case is a family law, civil, or business matter. After you complete the intake form, UMA ADR will contact both parties, confirm agreement to proceed, and schedule your mediation session.
