Mediator Resume

Attorney, divorce and family mediator with nearly two decades of experience mediating family and matrimonial matters in New York. Principal of a private mediation and law practice since 2006, with more than 200 mediated cases involving custody, parenting plans, equitable distribution, and child and spousal support. Extensive background in New York family and matrimonial law, LGBTQ+ family formation, and Surrogate’s Court practice. Regular trainer and adjunct professor in domestic relations law and mediation-related topics.

Rosenthal Law & Mediation – Principal

Attorney; Mediator; Educator

Principal, Rosenthal Law & Mediation, 2006–Present; Trainer, Center for Understanding in Conflict, 2025–Present; Adjunct Professor, City University of New York School of Law, 2019–2023; Staff Attorney, Legal Aid Society Juvenile Rights Division, 1997–2006; Fellow, NYU School of Law Family Defense Clinic, 2001–2002.

Private practice focused on mediating family and matrimonial law matters, including divorce, separation, custody, parenting arrangements, child and spousal support, equitable distribution, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, LGBT+ families, elder and probate mediation. Prepare separation agreements and file uncontested no-fault divorces. Taught NYS matrimonial law to students at CUNY School of Law for 5 semesters. Now am frequent guest speaker in law school classes. Teach domestic relations law to mediation trainees and mentor new mediators. Former fellow at NYU Law School's Family Defense Clinic. Prepare petitions for second-parent, stepparent adoptions, and judgments of parentage. Significant experience representing and advising families in Surrogate’s Court matters, including service as trustee of a complicated testimonial trust for 12 years. Served as 17A Guardian for disabled individual for 10 years. Have served as a Guardian Ad Litem in NYC Surrogates’ Courts since 2007. Litigated in NYC Family courts for 10 years before becoming a mediator. Experienced in neglect, abuse, termination of parental rights, custody, adoption, delinquency, child support and PINS matters. Litigated at trial and appellate level. Additional graduate study at Harvard Divinity School, New York University Graduate School of Arts and Science, New York University School of Social Work, and Smith College. Extensive studies in mediation technique, philosophy, framework and ethics.

Have mediated more than 200 family and matrimonial disputes since 2006 and have worked extensively with divorce, custody, and complex parenting matters. Experience includes the development of detailed parenting plans; resolution of child and spousal support issues; equitable distribution of marital assets and debts; and post-judgment modifications. Have managed cases involving enhanced emotions, power imbalances, communication breakdown, infidelity, trauma and entrenched relational dynamics. Have specialized in mediating matters involving diverse, multicultural, non-traditional, and LGBTQ+ families, including disputes concerning parentage, co-parenting, and family reorganization following separation. Have regularly worked with families that include children with special needs and have supported the creation of tailored parenting frameworks responsive to developmental and family-system considerations. Have frequently mediated matters in which resolution has depended on repairing damaged relationships, rebuilding trust, and improving communication in order to support durable, future-focused co-parenting arrangements. Background in New York family and matrimonial law has supported clear issue framing, informed option development, and reality-tested agreements within a facilitative, party-centered mediation process.

Separation agreements, including parenting plans, holidays, vacations, travel, relocation. Parenting schedules and decision-making, LGBTQ+ parentage and family formation issues. Distribution of marital assets and debts including retirement assets, real property, businesses, restricted stock units, deferred compensation and intellectual property. Maintenance and alimony. Child support including add-on and college expenses. Special needs planning.

I use an understanding-based approach grounded in warmth, creativity, and intelligence, and approach mediation as a structured but flexible process designed to honor the dignity and self-determination of all participants. I strive to create a safe environment for thoughtful, informed negotiation and problem-solving, while keeping the process productive, focused, and responsive to the needs of the parties. I typically begin with an introductory session to understand the contours of the dispute, explain the mediation process, clarify expectations, and allow the parties to assess whether mediation with me is an appropriate fit. I almost always meet with parties together, using joint sessions as the primary forum for discussion and decision-making. Caucusing is used selectively when it supports safety, clarity, or progress. I provide written summaries following sessions to support continuity, transparency, and informed decision-making. My background representing children and youth informs a child-centered approach to mediation, particularly in matters involving parenting plans and ongoing co-parenting relationships. I encourage parents to consider children’s developmental needs, emotional well-being, and long-term stability when making decisions. My role is not to make decisions for the parties, but to guide structured conversations that help them reach voluntary, law-informed, and reality-based solutions. Where appropriate, I offer legal context and reality-testing while maintaining neutrality and respect for party autonomy. I encourage consultation with independent, mediation-friendly counsel to ensure that decisions are fully informed and grounded in applicable law. I place particular emphasis on dignity, respectful communication, and future-focused problem solving, especially in matters involving ongoing family relationships. My goal is to assist parties in crafting durable agreements that optimize outcomes for all members of the family and support workable relationships going forward. My broader vision is a world in which people are able to voice their perspectives, be heard, and engage one another with dignity, even in the midst of conflict.

Work almost exclusively virtually via Zoom. The support calculator on website is used by attorneys and court personnel throughout the state.

City University of New York School of Law (JD - 1996); University of Massachusetts (BA - 1980).

Admitted to the Bar: New York (1997).

Center for Understanding in Conflict (liberation committee); Family and Divorce Mediation Council of Greater New York (past president); International Academy of Collaborative Professionals; National Association of Divorce Professionals; New York State Council on Divorce Mediation (training committee); New York State Bar Association; New York City Bar Association; Rockland County Bar Association; Rockland Women’s Bar Association.

Regular presenter on divorce mediation, parenting plans, child and spousal support, dignity in conflict resolution, and LGBTQ+ family law. Frequent guest on professional podcasts and continuing legal education programs addressing family mediation and conflict resolution.

Hourly Rate: $500.00 Daily Rate: Not provided Study Rate: $300.00/hr Cancellation: Not provided Cancellation Period: Not provided Comment:

English

United States of America

Nyack, New York