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At Gaddy Family Law, Patricia Gaddy provides professional mediation services in Toledo, Ohio that help individuals resolve disputes without the expense, time, and emotional toll of traditional litigation. As an approved mediator in Ohio with extensive training and experience, Patricia offers a path to resolution that empowers parties to create their solutions.
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution where a neutral third party (the mediator) facilitates communication between disputing parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
Unlike a judge or magistrate who makes decisions for you, a mediator helps you and the other party work together to find common ground and develop solutions that meet everyone’s needs.
*Important Information About Mediation
Litigation can drag on for months or even years, with mounting legal fees and court costs. Mediation typically resolves disputes in a fraction of the time and at a significantly lower cost. Many cases can be settled in just a few sessions, saving you thousands in attorney fees and court expenses.
When you take a dispute to court, the judge makes the final decision—which may not satisfy either party. In mediation, you and the other party retain control over the resolution. Nothing is decided unless both sides agree, ensuring solutions that work for your unique situation.
The adversarial nature of a lawsuit often damages relationships beyond repair. This is particularly problematic in family law cases where ongoing relationships—especially co-parenting—are necessary. Mediation’s collaborative approach helps preserve relationships and teaches valuable communication skills for future interactions.
Courtroom battles can be emotionally draining and stressful. Mediation provides a more supportive environment focused on resolution rather than conflict. Patricia’s compassionate approach helps reduce tension and anxiety throughout the process.
Patricia Gaddy is a Michigan SCAO-approved mediator in General Civil Matters and Domestic Relations and is qualified to serve as a mediator in Ohio. She offers comprehensive mediation services for a wide range of disputes, always prioritizing a respectful, confidential, and collaborative process.
Divorce does not have to be a bitter courtroom battle. Patricia helps couples work through all aspects of their divorce, including:
Couples who reach an agreement through mediation may be able to file for an uncontested dissolution of marriage, which can save significant time, money, and emotional strain. However, not all cases will result in an uncontested dissolution, and outcomes depend on the parties’ ability to reach an agreement.
Few issues are more important—or potentially contentious—than those involving children. Patricia helps parents develop workable custody and parenting time arrangements that prioritize their children’s best interests while respecting both parents’ rights and concerns.
Family conflicts can extend beyond divorce and may involve issues such as:
Patricia’s specialized training in family dynamics and conflict resolution helps families address these sensitive matters. Please note that some issues, such as grandparents’ rights, may be subject to specific statutory requirements and may not always be fully resolved through mediation alone.
Patricia also mediates non-family disputes, including:
Circumstances change over time, requiring modifications to existing court orders. Patricia helps parties navigate these changes collaboratively through mediation, which can be a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to returning to court.
When you choose Gaddy Family Law for your mediation needs, you can expect a structured yet flexible process designed to prioritize your safety, privacy, and control over the outcome.
Your journey begins with a consultation where Patricia explains the mediation process, answers your questions, and screens for the appropriateness of mediation—including any safety concerns or issues that could affect your ability to participate voluntarily. This is your opportunity to discuss concerns and understand what to expect moving forward.
Before formal mediation sessions begin, Patricia may request relevant information and documents from both parties. This helps her understand the issues and facilitates productive discussions.
During mediation sessions, Patricia creates a safe, respectful environment where both parties can express their needs and concerns. She guides the conversation, helps identify common interests, and facilitates creative problem-solving. The process is voluntary, and either party may end mediation at any time.
4. Private Caucuses (if needed) Sometimes, Patricia may meet with each party separately to discuss sensitive issues, explore concerns that are difficult to express in joint sessions, or work through impasses.
When the parties reach an agreement, Patricia helps document the terms in clear, comprehensive language. This agreement can then be reviewed by each party’s attorney (if applicable) and submitted to the court for approval if necessary. The agreement is not legally binding until approved by the court.
Circumstances can change after divorce. Our firm assists clients with:
While both are forms of alternative dispute resolution, in arbitration, the arbitrator makes a binding decision, similar to a judge. In mediation, the parties themselves make all decisions with the mediator’s guidance. Mediation agreements are not binding unless put in writing and signed by all parties, while arbitration decisions are typically binding and enforceable in court.
| Mediation | Litigation |
|---|---|
| Parties control the outcome | Judge makes final decisions |
| Generally confidential, with some exceptions required by Ohio law and unless otherwise agreed by the parties | Public court records |
| Often resolved more quickly than litigation, depending on the complexity of the case | Can take months or years |
| Lower cost | Significantly higher expense |
| Collaborative approach | Adversarial process |
| Designed to be less adversarial and may help preserve relationships | Often damages relationships |
Patricia’s background as a practicing attorney since 2016 gives her valuable insight into the legal implications of various agreements. As a Michigan SCAO-approved Mediator in both General Civil Matters and Domestic Relations and an approved mediator in Ohio, she brings specialized training to the table that helps parties reach lasting, legally sound agreements.
Known for her patience, active listening skills, and caring demeanor, Patricia creates an atmosphere where parties feel comfortable and respected. Magistrates have specifically noted her ability to give people time and truly listen to their concerns.
Patricia is a strong advocate for mediation because it’s “cheaper, faster, and people hate each other less at the end of it.” Her goal is to help clients get through the process as efficiently as possible, recognizing that “fighting is what costs people money.”
As a mediator, Patricia doesn’t represent either party but works impartially to help both sides find common ground. Her extensive experience as a family law attorney and Guardian ad Litem gives her unique insight into creating balanced, workable solutions.
While the mediation process itself is not binding, any agreement reached can become legally binding once it is put in writing, signed by all parties, and, in family law cases, approved by the court.
While not required, parties may choose to consult with attorneys before, during, or after the mediation process. Patricia encourages parties to have any final agreement reviewed by their respective attorneys before signing.
The duration varies depending on the complexity of the issues and the parties’ willingness to compromise. Some disputes are resolved in a few sessions, while others may take longer.
If mediation doesn’t result in a complete agreement, parties maintain their right to pursue litigation. However, even partial agreements reduce the scope of issues that need court intervention, saving time and money.
Safety is paramount. In cases involving domestic violence, Ohio law requires careful screening. Mediation may not be appropriate or permitted in some situations. If mediation proceeds, special arrangements can be made, such as separate sessions or support persons. Patricia will help assess whether mediation is safe and appropriate and can provide referrals to alternative resources if needed.
Mediation is significantly more affordable than litigation. Patricia offers competitive rates for mediation services, with costs varying based on the complexity of issues and time required. Contact our office for current fee information.
Taking the first step toward resolving your dispute through mediation is simple:
1. Contact Gaddy Family Law at (419) 260-1795 to schedule your initial consultation
2. Discuss your situation and determine if mediation is right for you
3. Begin the mediation process on your timeline
You don’t have to face conflict alone. With Patricia Gaddy’s skilled mediation services,
you can resolve disputes efficiently, affordably, and with dignity.