Season 2 - Episode 18: Using Mediation Strategically in Family Court

862.800.7850 In this insightful episode your host, Tracey Bee, founder of The Divorce Solutionist, former family law attorney, and your go-to pro se strategist — pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood tools in the family court system: mediation. Though often seen as a peaceful alternative to litigation, mediation is not a guaranteed fix especially for self-represented litigants. With her trademark candor and deep legal insight, Tracey shares why strategy must be at the core of every mediation attempt, and how blindly entering into mediation could cost you more than you realize — financially, emotionally, and in terms of your case outcomes. From cost myths to hidden risks, Tracey emphasizes the importance of knowing your why, having a strategic plan, and vetting your mediator just as carefully as you would a lawyer. Whether you’re court-mandated to try mediation or considering it as a conflict-resolution tool, this episode will reshape how you view the entire process. Key Topics Covered: Why Tracey supports mediation — when used strategicallyCommon misconceptions: Mediation isn't always faster or cheaperWhen mediation isn’t the right moveReal talk: $20,000+ mediation bills and what went wrongHow to vet a mediator and prepare like a proMediation in co-parenting: setting the stage for long-term collaborationWhy the “cost-saving” narrative doesn’t always apply to pro se litigantsStrategy first: How to use mediation to set yourself up for success — not more conflictThe different types of mediators and why credentials matterPower imbalances, DV history, and red flags to watch forTracey’s Takeaway: You don’t need to avoid mediation — but you do need to approach it with clarity, preparation, and a game plan. Pro se doesn’t mean powerless — it means you need to be even more intentional. 🎧 Tune in now and learn how to make mediation work for you — not against you.Support the showFamily Court can be traumatic! And trying to handle your case on your own can be even more catastrophic. There are twists & turns at every stage that you need to be aware of and to prepare for. Having a solid Gameplan and someone to help you execute it effectively can make all the difference in the Universe (not just the world.) We know all about the bias, corruption, and dysfunction being handed out by the system. We just want you to have a fighting chance by leveling the playing field.Need help in handling your Family Court case on your own?We have services that are specifically geared toward helping self-represented litigants like you understand the common mistakes that lead to the most disappointing outcomes.To find out more about our services and to stay informed of our FREE workshops by joining our email & visit us at www.TheDivorceSolutionist.com.