Salem Attorneys Are Your Partner During Divorce Mediation or Arbitration
Mediation and arbitration are often effective tools for keeping a divorce private, respectful, and out of the courtroom. Most people think of divorce as high costs and unpleasant public court proceedings. While some cases require aggressive litigation, the right representation and strategy can often avoid an expensive, combative process.
At Johnson & Taylor, we focus on strategic de-escalation rather than ego-driven arguments. Our goal is to protect your finances and your family by pursuing amicable, out-of-court settlements whenever possible.
Schedule a consultation by calling (971) 318-5516 or submitting an online form.
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“I got custody in matter of months, in fact any delay was on my side but Mai was always reminding me and pushing me to do my part, she was all in in this process. I would love to recommend her and their firm, hope I don’t need it again but if I do I’ll definitely go back to them.”- Cristina S.
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“I recently used Johnson and Taylor, Person Injury and Family Law to assist me in divorce proceedings. Brittany Sumner and her paralegal, Stephanie Kincaid, provided excellent service and expertise. They were quick to respond to questions via email or phone and were able to schedule appointments in a timely manner. I highly recommend this practice and will use them again in the future should I have need for legal representation.”- Natalie R.
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“Melissa and Bryan helped my husband adopt our son, and we truly could not have asked for better attorney to walk us through this journey. What could have been a complicated and overwhelming process felt peaceful and seamless with them by our side.”- Cassandra D.
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“I had the pleasure of working with Brittany as my attorney and she was absolutely amazing. Her and her team did an amazing job. They worked hard and super fast on all accounts. Ive been battling my ex wife for 11 years after our divorce over our 1 and only child together. I would recommend her to anyone in the same position i was in. Again thank you Johnson and Taylor, most of all a big thank you Brittany.”- Brittany S.
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“Johnson and Taylor helped me through one of the most difficult times of my life. navigating a complex family law matter and I couldn’t be more grateful. From the first consultation to the final resolution, their team provided outstanding legal guidance and genuine support every step of the way. They listened to my concerns, explained the process in a way I could understand, and always made me feel like a priority. Their attention to detail, strategic thinking, and compassion made a huge difference in my case and my peace of mind. If you’re facing any family law issues and need a team that is both knowledgeable and truly cares, Johnson and Taylor is the firm to call.”- Joshua W.
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“There was a lot of debt that needed to be sorted out, but they were both confident and positive that things would be straightforward, but were always prepared if things were to become more difficult. They made the process as painless and easy as possible, and were communicative and very patient with me and all of the worries I had. 10 out of 10, I can confidently say that I would happily work with them again if I ever need another divorce”- Margaret C.
The Facts About Mediation
Mediation is one of many tools for separated or divorcing couples and can replace a long and expensive trial. Unlike arbitration, where a third party decides matters for the parties, mediation uses a neutral third party, the mediator, who helps both individuals work out an agreement. During mediation, our attorneys demonstrate a capacity to genuinely understand both sides of a dispute, allowing us to break gridlocks and move stalled processes forward.
Both parties must agree to mediation, and if they do, they control the details of the agreement.
Benefits of mediation include:
- It is quicker and cheaper than going to trial.
- The proceedings are private.
- Cooperative solutions are usually better for the children involved.
- It is not binding until both parties agree.
- The divorcing parties control the agreement.
Nothing done in mediation is final until the parties sign off. If you and your former partner cannot agree on everything, you can sign off on the items you do agree on and work out the rest in court, which still saves time and money.
How Johnson & Taylor Elevates the Mediation Process
Even if you plan to use mediation, consulting a knowledgeable divorce and family law attorney is a crucial step. Johnson & Taylor can tell you whether you are a good candidate for mediation, which mediator will work for your situation, and how to start mediation and have the court pay for it.
We provide direct access to our lead attorney and individualized strategy. You are never passed off to a call center or high-volume legal mill. Because divorce and custody disputes often affect property titles and tax structures, our multidisciplinary firm can update your living trusts, wills, and powers of attorney immediately after divorce, so you don't need a second firm.
How Does the Mediation Process Work?
A typical mediation session starts with an initial consultation in which the mediator explains the process, the roles of all parties (including the attorneys), and sets the ground rules. The mediator also asks for a brief perspective of the dispute from each of the parties. If the parties wish to continue mediation, they meet at later dates to discuss whatever issues they are tackling during that session. The mediator asks clarifying questions and tries to work with the parties to hammer out an agreement on as many issues as possible.
A mediation session can last about two hours, and the number of sessions needed varies, depending on the number of issues on the table and how quickly each can be agreed upon, but it is typically three or four sessions. Behind the scenes, our dedicated paralegals and administrative staff frequently handle late-hour document deliveries to opposing counsel to keep settlements on strict timelines.
Results of mediation can be:
- The parties resolve all of their issues and sign a binding agreement.
- The parties solve some of their problems and go to trial for the remaining issues.
- The parties quit mediation at some point and go to trial, as mediation is purely voluntary.
Even though mediation avoids the courtroom altogether, it is wise to have an attorney with you throughout the process so you know whether you should or should not agree to certain provisions with your former partner.
Backed by an AV Preeminent® Rating from Martindale-Hubbell® and hundreds of verified five-star client reviews, Johnson & Taylor is a valuable resource during your mediation proceeding if you have any questions or concerns.
Let a Salem Mediation and Arbitration Law Firm Make Your Divorce as Painless as Possible
Johnson & Taylor realizes that you are not looking forward to the divorce process, but we want you to know that easier, less expensive alternatives to a full-blown trial are available. Founded in 2012, we have no desire to drag our clients through a long and unnecessary court proceeding. We are honest with our clients and advise them to use the process that best suits their needs. Furthermore, we leverage our deep familiarity with local judges, judicial preferences, and courtroom procedures in Marion County Circuit Court and Polk County Circuit Court to inform your legal strategy.
Our office is conveniently located adjacent to the courthouse in downtown Salem, Oregon, and has ample free parking. We proudly represent individuals in Salem, Keizer, Albany, and surrounding Oregon communities. We also offer full Spanish-language legal services to provide comfortable, clear communication for all family members.
Call (971) 318-5516 or contact us online to start the conversation.
Meet the Partners
The attorneys leading your case with experience, strategy, and a commitment to results
