Family Mediation FAQ: Answers to Common Questions in Kentucky

A mediator is neutral and cannot give legal advice. Many families find it helpful to consult an attorney for advice before the session, and one will be needed to prepare final court paperwork. But the mediator’s job is to help you both communicate and resolve issues.

Private mediators in Kentucky typically charge $200-$300 per hour, usually split between both parties. This is often dramatically less than the cost of litigation, which can involve attorney retainers, court fees, and long wait times.

Most cases resolve in two to four sessions, each lasting about two to four hours. More complex matters may require additional sessions, but mediation almost always moves faster than a court case.

Yes. By Kentucky law, mediation discussions are confidential and cannot be used in court, except in cases of abuse reporting or other legal exceptions. This privacy is a major advantage over public court proceedings.

Mediation doesn’t force an agreement. If some issues remain unresolved, you can still take those to court. Partial agreements can be made official so only the remaining issues are litigated.

Most often, the cost is split equally between parties, but you can agree on another arrangement if needed.

Yes, mediation often helps parties find common ground—even if they start far apart. If full agreement isn’t possible, you still have the option of court, and you may have resolved some of the issues.

A mediator can and should prepare a basic agreement reflecting any terms to which the parties agree, and get that signed before the mediation concludes. But under Kentucky ethics laws the mediator cannot prepare other documents necessary to finalize most cases. That means most of the formal court filings are usually completed by one party’s attorney or submitted to court for approval.

Many Kentucky judges require families to try mediation before proceeding in court, especially in custody disputes.

Mediation may not be suitable in situations with ongoing domestic violence, severe power imbalances, or if someone refuses to participate in good faith. In those cases, court intervention may be necessary.