Mediation Services at Schoech Law Group
Mediation: A Smarter Path to Resolution
Mediation is a valuable tool for resolving disputes because it encourages collaboration, reduces conflict, and often leads to faster, more cost-effective outcomes than litigation. It allows parties to maintain control over the resolution process, promotes open communication, and can preserve relationships that might otherwise be damaged in court. By focusing on mutual understanding and compromise, mediation fosters solutions that are tailored to the needs of everyone involved.
At Schoech Law Group, we help parties throughout California resolve real estate and construction disputes efficiently, confidentially, and affordably.
Why Choose Mediation?
- Control – You and the other party decide the outcome, not a judge.
- Confidentiality – Anything said in mediation is confidential to allow for open discussions without the fear that your words can be used against you later in court.
- Cost-Effectiveness – Mediation is a great tool for early resolution of a case and can help avoid the steep costs of prolonged litigation or arbitration.
Mediation Practice Areas
Real Estate – Failure to Disclose
Failure to disclose disputes in California real estate transactions—such as hidden defects, unpermitted renovations, or misrepresented property conditions—are common sources of litigation, but they can often be resolved through mediation. Mediation offers a confidential, non-binding forum where buyers, sellers, and sometimes agents can address concerns and negotiate settlements without the expense and stress of court proceedings. Further, under the California Association of REALTORS® Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA), parties are typically required to attempt mediation before filing a lawsuit or arbitration. Failing to comply with this pre-litigation mediation requirement can result in the loss of attorney’s fees, even for the prevailing party.
Construction Disputes
Construction disputes often arise from issues like delays, cost overruns, contract misunderstandings, or defects in workmanship. These types of conflicts are well-suited for mediation because they typically involve multiple parties—such as contractors, subcontractors, property owners, and suppliers—who benefit from a collaborative approach to resolution. Mediation allows these stakeholders to address their concerns in a confidential setting, explore creative solutions, and avoid the high costs and lengthy timelines of litigation. It also helps preserve professional relationships, which can be especially important in ongoing or future projects.
Pricing
| Package | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Half-Day Mediation | Up to 4 hours, including preparation | $4,000 |
| Full-Day Mediation | Up to 8 hours, including preparation; recommended for complex disputes | $8,000 |
Cancellation Policy: Parties can cancel with no cancellation fee up to 24 hours before the scheduled mediation. Within 24 hours the parties will be charged a 20% cancellation fee.
Ready to Move Forward?
Email the mediator, Matthew Schoech, directly at matt@norcallawfirm.com to request availability and have conflicts check run.