The importance of opening presentations in mediation – Some clients and their lawyers question the need or use of an opening presentation in mediation. Mediators, however, often advocate for them. It provides them with a foundation on which to build upon when discussing the issues with the parties. While some may challenge this approach, we consider that there are clear advantages in opening presentations and the opportunity to make a good one should be taken. Recently, we witnessed this in two mediations in which we were involved in as described below.

Who gets the dog in the divorce? – It’s clear the relationship isn’t worth salvaging. A breakup is imminent, and it’s time to divvy up assets. But a question lingers: Who gets the pets?

Mountain of mortgage paperwork wears down borrowers – Could getting a home mortgage under today’s post-housing bust regulations and procedures be even remotely comparable to going to the dentist to get drilled? Or anything like having your annual physical, where every body part potentially is subject to inspection and prodding?