You do not need to hire a lawyer to mediate. But you should understand what a mediator can and cannot do, and when independent legal advice is especially valuable. Crossroads Neutral is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice — so this question matters to us too.
A mediator is neutral; a lawyer is on your side
A mediator does not represent either spouse. Our job is to help both of you communicate, understand your options, and reach decisions you can both accept. We can explain how mediation works and share general information, but we cannot tell either of you what is best for you legally or advocate for one side.
An attorney represents you alone. They can tell you what a court would likely do, whether a proposed agreement protects your interests, and what rights you might be giving up.
Ways attorneys can be involved
- Consulting attorney: advice before or during mediation, without attending sessions
- Review attorney: reviewing the final agreement before you sign it
- Attorney-assisted mediation: attorneys attend some or all sessions
- Collaborative process: each spouse has a collaboratively trained attorney, and all commit to settling out of court
Many couples choose the first two options: focused advice and a final review, without the cost of attorneys running the whole process.
When independent legal advice is especially important
- Significant assets, a business, or equity compensation
- Questions about separate vs. community property, or a prenuptial agreement
- Long-term spousal maintenance
- Retirement accounts that require a court order to divide
- Property, immigration, or legal matters in another country
- A large gap between the spouses' financial knowledge
- Any concern about safety, coercion, or pressure
How we work with attorneys
We are glad to coordinate with your attorneys, share drafts for review, and incorporate their feedback. Joti Basi is trained in collaborative law and is a member of the King County Bar Association's Collaborative Section, King County Collaborative Law, the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals, and the Washington Mediation Association. Attorneys can learn more on our page for professionals.
This page is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Crossroads Neutral, LLC is not a law firm. Laws change and every situation is different — please consult a licensed attorney about your rights and obligations.
