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Yes. Mediation is a confidential process. The discussions, documents, and negotiations that take place during mediation are private and generally cannot be used as evidence in court. This confidentiality is one of the key reasons people choose mediation — it allows both parties to speak openly and honestly without fear that their words will be used against them later.

Every situation is different, but most mediations are resolved in two to five sessions. Simple cases may be completed in a single session, while more complex matters — such as divorces involving significant assets or multi-party business disputes — may require additional time. Alisa will give you a realistic estimate during your initial consultation based on her 25+ years of mediation experience.

Mediation is typically a fraction of the cost of litigation. Specific fees depend on the type and complexity of your case. Contact Compass Mediation Group for a transparent fee discussion during your free consultation — there are no hidden costs or surprise charges.

Mediation is effective for a wide range of disputes, including divorce, child custody, family conflicts, business partnership disagreements, contract disputes, workplace issues, and estate or inheritance disagreements. If both parties are willing to participate in good faith, mediation can often achieve better outcomes than court — faster, less expensive, and with less emotional damage. Alisa's background — 16 years as a former practicing attorney (1996–2012) in Washington state courts, Master Mediator (IMA) certification, and IRS Enrolled Agent credential — means she brings genuine legal and financial expertise to every type of mediation she handles.

A mediator does not replace an attorney. Alisa's role is to facilitate negotiation and help both parties reach agreement — she does not represent either side and does not provide legal advice. While Alisa holds a Juris Doctorate from Seattle University School of Law and practiced law for 16 years, in mediation she serves as a neutral facilitator. Many clients choose to have their own attorney review the final mediated agreement before signing, which is encouraged. However, you are not required to have an attorney to participate in mediation.

Not every mediation results in a full agreement, and that is okay. If the parties are unable to reach resolution on some or all issues, they retain all of their other legal options, including litigation. Nothing said or offered during mediation can be used in court, so there is no downside to trying.

Mediation requires both parties to participate voluntarily and in good faith. If one party is genuinely unwilling to engage, mediation may not be the right fit. However, many people who are initially reluctant become more open once they understand the process. Alisa is experienced at creating an environment where even hesitant participants feel safe and heard — a skill developed over 25+ years of mediation practice and 16 years of courtroom experience.

Alisa Kharis holds a Juris Doctorate from Seattle University School of Law (1995), a B.A. in Political Science, Cum Laude, from Washington State University (1987), Master Mediator certification from the International Mediation Association (IMA) earned through a year-long program in Phoenix, AZ (2021), and is a federally licensed IRS Enrolled Agent (2022, with Oregon license). She practiced law for 16 years (1996–2012) across King, Pierce, Kitsap, Whatcom, and Grays Harbor counties in Washington, and has 25+ years of mediation experience and education. Read Alisa's full bio →