Mediation offers an alternative to slow and expensive  litigation.  

Please email me at LeahSykes@gmail.com, or contact me here. 

Mediation lets you decide

Mediation is an alternative to litigation.  In mediation, the parties and mediator craft an agreement based on the needs, interests and circumstance of the parties.  In litigation, a judge determines the outcome of the issues based on legal argument and California law.  Mediation is often more efficient than litigation, and allows parties to retain control over the outcome and resolution. 

Even with mediation, court involvement may be necessary.  For instance, you must file papers with the court to get divorced or legally separated.  Coming to agreement through mediation facilitates the legal process and paves the way for a smooth uncontested divorce that allows the parties to retain control over their lives.

Process Oriented, Outcome Driven

I work with both parties to understand and uncover interests, find places of overlap, and develop creative options and solutions to address underlying needs.  The process is collaborative, respectful and party driven.  I believe in the power and efficiency of this interest-based approach, and trust that through careful listening and critical thinking we can develop lasting agreements and minimize future conflict.     

How I helP

• I provide a structure for discussion and negotiation, from setting an agenda to gathering information and coming up with options.  Throughout, I help facilitate direct communication and fair negotiation.
• I give information about the law, including its role in mediation.  As a neutral third party I do not evaluate the law, give legal advice, or provide legal representation, but can direct you to referrals and resources.  
• I can draft a written document reflecting the agreements reached in mediation.  For separating or divorcing couples, this document typically includes agreements around parenting, property division and financial support.  You can use this document in your divorce process, and are advised to seek outside legal counsel to make it legally binding.  
• Informed by the latest research in neuroscience, I help manage the physiological impacts of stress and anxiety on the nervous system.  This kind of attention supports an inner experience of calm.  In turn, this inner state allows fuller access to cognitive capacities, problem solving skills and decision making ability.  It also promotes emotional stability and peace. 

Approach

I hold a JD from UC Hastings, am an active member of the California Bar, and focus on Alternative Dispute Resolution.  I also hold an MA in counseling psychology with an emphasis on somatic (body-oriented) psychotherapy, and am a marriage and family therapist intern.  As a mediator I draw from both of these backgrounds.  My approach blends structure and information with warmth and humor.  I am told that I am grounding, calming and present.