Mediator Resume

Mediator and collaboratively trained attorney with a focused practice in divorce and legal separation, offering substantial experience facilitating constructive, solution-oriented resolution of family law matters. Practice centers on guiding parties through the mediation process in a structured and balanced manner, with attention to equitable distribution of marital property, child custody and support, parenting time, maintenance, and division of marital debt. Emphasis is placed on clear communication, informed decision-making, and practical outcomes that support long-term stability for families. Regularly prepares comprehensive legal agreements, including divorce settlement agreements, separation agreements, pre- and post-nuptial agreement

Peacemaker Divorce Mediation - Owner

Mediator

Attorney/Mediator/President, Peacemaker Divorce Mediation, 2012-Present; Of Counsel, Ali Law Group, 2019-Present; Litigation Associate, The Law Offices of David J. Sutton, 2016-2019; Legal Editor, Juris Publishing, 2010-2016; Litigation Associate, Law Offices of Mark A. Cuthbertson, 2010-2013; Associate General Counsel, Hofstra University, 2003-2004 & 2008-2009; Litigation Associate, Bingham Dana / Loeb & Loeb 2000-2002.

Extensive professional experience in divorce mediation, family law, and litigation, with a primary focus on divorce and legal separation matters. Professional background includes serving as a mediator and collaboratively trained attorney handling issues related to equitable distribution of marital property, child custody and support, parenting time, maintenance, and division of marital debt. Experience includes drafting comprehensive divorce settlement agreements, separation agreements, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, and court-ready divorce filings, with an emphasis on clarity, enforceability, and durable outcomes. Additional legal experience includes work as Of Counsel in labor and employment law, representing clients in federal and state litigation and administrative proceedings, including NYSDHR investigations and EEOC claims. Prior litigation roles encompassed a broad range of matters, including contract disputes, employment law, securities litigation, probate, real estate disputes, and municipal liability. Academic and publishing experience includes service as a legal editor for a national legal publisher, overseeing the development and production of legal publications and working closely with authors to ensure accuracy and quality. Former service as Associate General Counsel to a university included advising on litigation, contracts, labor matters, real estate, and administrative proceedings. Roadmaps for Resolution Collaborative Law Training 15-hour Collaborative Practice Training Certification August 2023 Center for Mediation & Training, New York, NY 40-hour Basic Training in Divorce Mediation Certification February 2013

Mediating divorce and family law cases since 2012, services are provided to help separating and divorcing couples navigate financial and parenting issues within a structured mediation framework designed to support productive dialogue. The process supports collaborative problem-solving around equitable distribution of marital assets and debt, parenting plans, child custody and support, and spousal maintenance, while recognizing the emotional complexity often present in family transitions. Experience includes guiding couples through all stages of mediation, from early issue identification and facilitated discussion through negotiation and final agreement, as well as assisting with post-judgment modifications involving financial and parenting concerns. Additional experience includes working with parties across a wide range of emotional, relational, and financial dynamics commonly present in separation and divorce, including complex financial circumstances and layered family structures. Mediation has involved helping parties remain engaged in the process despite conflict, supporting more effective communication when discussions become difficult, and assisting parties in organizing information and working toward informed decision-making at a pace appropriate to their circumstances. In appropriate cases, mediation has also involved coordinating with financial professionals and mental health professionals to address financial complexity or communication challenges. Throughout the process, attention is given to pacing, clarity, and maintaining a constructive path forward so that discussions remain focused on resolution and agreements reached are practical, durable, and responsive to each family’s circumstances.

I view mediation as a voluntary, confidential, and party-driven process designed to promote informed decision-making and meaningful resolution. I approach each mediation with the objective of creating a structured and respectful environment in which parties can communicate effectively, understand the issues before them, and make decisions based on education, transparency, and informed consent. This framework is particularly important in family law matters, where legal, financial, and parenting issues are often interconnected and require careful consideration. My role as mediator is primarily facilitative. I assist parties in identifying and framing issues, managing the process, and exploring options in a neutral manner, while respecting party autonomy and self-determination. The parties retain control over both the substance and outcome of the mediation. When appropriate and when requested, I may provide limited evaluative feedback as part of the process to help parties assess options or understand potential implications, always with the goal of supporting informed and voluntary decision-making rather than directing outcomes. I expect parties to participate in good faith, to engage openly and respectfully, and to provide full and accurate financial disclosure so that discussions and agreements are grounded in complete information. I encourage thoughtful preparation, active participation, and a willingness to consider a range of solutions. Throughout the mediation process, I emphasize clarity, transparency, and mutual understanding, with the objective of supporting agreements that are informed, intentional, and sustainable over time. I am committed to maintaining neutrality, protecting the integrity of the mediation process, and ensuring that all participants have a meaningful opportunity to be heard. The mediation process is structured to promote fairness, balance, and procedural clarity, while remaining flexible enough to address the unique circumstances of each family. The goal of mediation is not only resolution, but resolution achieved through a process that parties understand, trust, and can rely upon going forward.

Extensive experience conducting mediations and conferences using Zoom. Comfortable managing all aspects of virtual proceedings, including joint sessions, breakout rooms, document review, and maintaining confidentiality and procedural order in an online environment.

Hofstra University School of Law (J.D. With Distinction, Hofstra Law Review - 2000); Dowling College (B.S. magna cum laude - 1996).

Admitted to the Bar: New York (2001); U.S. District Courts: Eastern (2010) and Southern (2010) Districts of New York.

Peacemaker Divorce Mediation, Blog Articles

Hourly Rate: $500.00 Daily Rate: Not provided Study Rate: $500.00/hr Cancellation: $500.00/hr Cancellation Period: 2 Days Comment: Complimentary 30 minute consultation

English

United States of America

Huntington, New York