Parenting Plan Mediation (PPM)

 

​

Here is a brief outline of the steps we will take together during the course of this Parenting Plan Mediation.  Sometimes the steps vary according to individual situations and needs.  We will do our best to develop a plan that responds to the interests of both parties and is, most important, in the best interests of your child or children.

​

1. The mediator makes initial contact with each of the parties by mail, email or telephone to describe PPM, to share fee information, and to present a sample agreement to mediate.

​

2. The mediator follows up on the initial contact to confirm email, mailing address, and legal counsel for the participant, answer questions, develop an agreement to mediate and set the date and time for the Initial Private Session (IPS).  The mediator will meet separately with each party for their respective IPS.

In the IPS, I will gather some basic information about this case.  I will hear your perspectives and your story.  We will get better acquainted.  I will do my best to prepare you for the mediation process.

​

3. The mediator schedules a first joint session for the participants (usually three hours long).

Mediation is an informal process that strives to give decision-making power to the parties.  Parenting Plan Mediation is always focused, as specified in the laws of the State of Nebraska, on the best interests of your child or children.  This is a confidential process and one where your safety and comfort are important.  We will do our best to be civil with each other, to listen carefully, and to build a plan that serves your child or children and responds to your needs and interests.

​

4. The mediator schedules a second joint session (if necessary).

​

5. The mediator writes a first draft of a Parenting Plan and forwards that to the parties for comment.  Parties have five days to make a response.

​

6. When the parties are in agreement, the mediator sends a final draft of the Parenting Plan to the parties for a mandatory twenty-one period during which objections may be filed.

​

7. At the end of the twenty-one day period, the mediator sends a copy of the Parenting Plan to the office of the Douglas County Conciliation Court or other relevant Court office.

​

8. When all parties have agreed and the Court has received and approved the Plan, it becomes the order of the Court and takes effect officially.

​

If you have an attorney, please keep your attorney informed at every step of this process.  Attorneys have a right to be present during mediation sessions if that is the desire of their client.  That presence is for the purposes of consultation.  The mediation sessions are focused on the conversation between you and your child’s other parent.