FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Still have questions? Talk to a mediator or contact support.

What does “mediation” mean in Common Ground?

Mediation is a voluntary process in which people work toward resolving a disagreement by discussing the issues, exchanging proposals, and trying to reach mutually acceptable terms. Common Ground provides tools to help you communicate, negotiate, document proposals, and create an agreement if you reach one. Common Ground provides the technology for the mediation process. Common Ground is not acting as your attorney and, unless a qualified mediator is specifically participating in your case, Common Ground itself is not the mediator.

Is Common Ground a law firm?

No. Common Ground is a mediation platform, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice or legal representation. For supported document types and jurisdictions, some documents may use available state-specific legal sources and drafting rules; that is not attorney review. We recommend independent licensed attorney review before any agreement or legal document is signed or relied upon.

What does state-specific drafting mean?

For supported document types and jurisdictions, Common Ground may use available statutes, regulations, court rules, governmental materials, and other legal sources to assist with drafting. The product shows the state used for drafting, ruleset version, and sources for that document. Laws may change, and this does not guarantee legal sufficiency, enforceability, filing, recording, or suitability for your circumstances.

How much does it cost?

$49 per case — the person who starts the case pays, and the other party joins free. That covers the complete self-guided Common Ground case: messages, proposals, AI phrasing help, documents, signatures, and the final agreement PDF. Optional extras: a human mediator for $299 (includes up to 2 hours), additional mediation time at $149/hour when you both choose it, and online notarization at the notary provider's quoted price, always shown before purchase. No hourly billing.

Who can use this?

Two parties to a private dispute — most commonly family matters (parenting, separation), small-business partnership questions, neighbor or housing disputes, and small civil settlements.

Is my information private?

Your information is kept in a private, access-controlled case workspace. Case details, messages, documents, and agreements are not public. Access is limited to authorized participants and approved administrators. Invitation links require sign-in, and documents are stored in private, access-controlled storage.

When is mediation NOT appropriate?

Mediation isn't appropriate where there is domestic violence, coercion, or a power imbalance that prevents free negotiation. If you feel unsafe, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Can we bring in a human mediator?

Yes — at any point. Either party can request that a trained mediator join the case to help move things forward.

What if we can't reach an agreement?

Either party can request a human mediator at any time. If mediation isn't working, nothing prevents you from pursuing other options.

What if I change my mind after paying?

The case-opening fee is non-refundable once a case has been opened, an invitation has been sent, or you have accessed the case workspace. Refunds may be issued at our discretion for duplicate payments, billing errors, unauthorized charges, or if we are unable to provide access to the purchased service. See our Refund Policy for details.

What happens to my payment if a case is already opened or an invitation was sent?

The case-opening fee is non-refundable once a case has been opened, an invitation has been sent, or you have accessed the case workspace. This is because the fee covers the work of creating the case, providing access to the platform, sending invitations, and making the mediation-support tools available.

How do I submit a refund request?

Submit a refund request through our Refund Policy page. The form collects your name, case ID or case information, payment date, and the reason for your request. Once you submit it, your email client will open with a pre-filled message addressed to support@commongroundmediationpro.com. Send that email to complete your request.

When can I reach customer support?

Phone and email support is available 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday Eastern Standard Time. We try to respond to messages within 1 business day; complex questions may take longer.