Mediation · Parenting
A parenting plan for right now.
For parents affected by addiction or substance use who need a temporary custody schedule while things are uncertain, without a court fight.
Who this is for
- One or both parents are struggling with addiction or are in recovery
- You need a schedule now, while treatment, recovery or a court case plays out
- You want the children safe and settled, and fewer arguments at exchanges
What you'll leave with
- A written temporary schedule: who has the children when, and how exchanges happen
- Safety terms you both agree to, such as sober parenting time and sober driving
- What happens if a visit has to be canceled or cut short
- A date to sit down again and revisit the schedule
Safety first. If there has been violence, threats, or there's a protection order between you, please call before booking. Mediation may not be the right fit, and Liz can talk with you about other options.
Liz is a neutral mediator. She doesn't represent either of you or give either side legal advice. You leave with a written list of your agreements to review with your own lawyer or advisor.
How it works
Two meetings, one plan.
We meet together
Both parents meet with Liz at the same time to talk through the children's week, what feels safe, and what each of you needs.
Liz meets with each of you separately
A second meeting by video, where Liz talks with each person one-on-one. It's a private space to raise concerns you may not want to say in front of the other person.
At the end of mediation
You take home a list of your agreements.
Liz gives you a written list of everything you agreed to in mediation. You don't sign anything in mediation, so no one feels pressured to commit on the spot.
Take the list home. Review it with a lawyer or any other advisor you trust. Then decide whether to turn it into a contract.
Before your first meeting. After you book, your confirmation email includes a link to a short intake form. Each person fills it out on their own. It takes about 10 minutes, and your answers are private: the other person won't see them.
Plan for three hours for each meeting. Please set aside a full three hours for the joint meeting and three hours for the separate video meeting, so there's time to work through everything without rushing.
Ready when you are.
Pick a time and pay when you book. Each booking starts with a short list of policies to check.