alternative dispute resolution A Courtroom Isn't Always The Answer.

Mediation, negotiation, and parenting coordination resolve the majority of family law disputes we handle, faster, cheaper, and with less damage than a trial. Here's how each path works, and how to know which one fits your case.

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(208) 865-8229

Quick Answers

In negotiation, the parties and their attorneys communicate directly about potential terms of an agreement. Mediation adds a neutral third party who helps the parties identify disputed issues, communicate about possible resolutions, and evaluate settlement options. Neither process requires the parties to agree to terms simply because discussions take place.
Whether mediation is required depends on the circumstances of the case and any applicable court orders. Even when mediation is available, a party should consider whether the process is appropriate for the particular dispute, including the parties' ability to communicate and whether there are safety or power concerns that could affect meaningful participation.
Yes, parties may have legal representation during mediation, depending on the mediation arrangement. Having an attorney can be particularly useful when the issues involve property division, support, custody, retirement assets, or proposed settlement terms that will have lasting legal consequences.
An unsuccessful mediation does not necessarily mean the case has to start over. The parties can proceed with the litigation process and address the issues that remain unresolved. Sometimes mediation resolves several issues while leaving only a few matters for the court to decide.
No. Mediation can be useful when the parties are able to participate meaningfully in a structured settlement process, but it is not the right approach for every dispute. The nature of the conflict, safety concerns, power dynamics, urgency, and willingness of the parties to negotiate can all affect whether an alternative dispute resolution process makes sense.

Boise Alternative Dispute Resolution Lawyers

Providing Innovative, Collaborative Legal Solutions to Ada & Canyon Counties

At Jones Law Partners, we take pride in offering alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services that provide effective solutions for all kinds of family law matters. From guiding you through mediation to assisting with parenting coordination, our team can help you tackle even the most complex legal challenges, all without the time, stress, and expenses that come with litigation.

Call (208) 865-8229 or reach out online to start with our Boise alternative dispute resolution attorneys at Jones Law Partners.

Leading the charge at our firm is Attorney Colby L. Jones, a leader in ADR in Idaho. He has earned a Master of Laws in dispute resolution from Pepperdine University, co-authored and authored numerous articles concerning dispute resolution, and taught continuing legal education (CLE) courses for the Idaho State Bar and Idaho Mediators Association. His extensive knowledge and dedication to innovative, client-centered solutions have made him a valuable resource for families and individuals throughout Boise and the surrounding areas.

Contact us if you are interested in learning how Attorney Jones and our firm's supporting team can assist you in amicably and efficiently resolving a legal conflict. We offer in-person and virtual consultations. Plus, we can arrange payment plans to make hiring a lawyer more accessible.

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Founding Partner • Mediation & Dispute Resolution
Colby L. Jones
Holds an LL.M. from the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine. Chair of the Idaho State Bar's Dispute Resolution Section. TEDx speaker and published author on mediation, with deep experience guiding divorce and custody matters toward durable, out-of-court resolutions.
LL.M. • Straus Institute, Pepperdine
Chair • Idaho Bar Dispute Resolution Section
TEDx speaker • Published on Mediation
Meet Attorney Jones
Partner • Family Law
Dominic Piccione
Cum laude graduate of the University of Akron School of Law. Devotes his practice to family law - divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and property division - with empathy, clear communication, and practical strategies for families navigating life's most difficult transitions.
J.D., cum laude • Akron School of Law
Family Law • Divorce & Custody Focus
Member • Idaho State Bar
Meet Attorney Piccione
Partner • Family Law & Appeals
Weston Burke
Lifelong Idahoan and University of Idaho College of Law graduate. Former Managing Editor of the Idaho Law Review and CALI Excellence Award recipient. Co-counsel on Doe I v. John Doe (566 P.3d 409, 2025), securing reversal of a wrongful termination of parental rights at the Idaho Supreme Court.
J.D. • University of Idaho College of Law
Managing Editor • Idaho Law Review
Idaho Supreme Court • Doe I v. John Doe (2025)
Meet Attorney Burke

Know Who's Beside You

meet the full team

Know Who's Beside You.

meet the full team

others Have Walked This Road With Us.

He has my full confidence and I would recommend him to anyone.
“Colby Jones has represented me for over 8 months. He came in to my case after the trial process.”

- Scott
His confident, calm and professional demeanor helped me through a chaotic divorce.
“I would recommend Weston Burke for your legal needs.”

- Lisa J.
I would wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Jones.
“From the very beginning of seeking counsel for a divorce, Colby Lee Jones exercised patience and provided sound legal advice through this arduous event.”

- David
Dominic is not only knowledgeable and tough, but also an incredibly compassionate and insightful attorney.
“Working with this office gave me a newfound admiration and respect for those in the legal field.”

- Wendy A.
They Really Care
“They care, they are motivated, and they shoot to achieve the most excellent results in the most trying times. If you wanna put your bet on anyone, I'd put it on Jones Law Partners!”

- Tyler F.
By far the best.
“I recommend him any opportunity I get.”

- Luz (Christina)

Our Alternative Dispute Resolution Services

Jones Law Partners is committed to helping Boise-area clients resolve issues through collaborative and non-adversarial methods.

Our ADR services include:

Mediation
Parenting coordination
Emergency temporary orders mediation

What Are the Benefits of Alternative Dispute Resolution?

Below we explore the benefits of different ADR approaches:

Mediation

Mediation offers families a cooperative way to resolve disputes, unlike the often-adversarial nature of litigation. It encourages open communication and allows all parties to work together to create solutions suited to their specific situations. With mediation, participants retain full control over the outcome, as mediators guide the process without imposing decisions. This approach saves time and money and can preserve relationships, making it an ideal choice for resolving conflicts in a constructive and mutually beneficial way.

Parenting Coordination

When co-parents struggle to implement or adhere to parenting plans, Jones Law Partners provides parenting coordination services to help reduce conflict and improve communication. Our legal team can assist families in resolving disputes concerning scheduling, decision-making authority, and other sensitive parenting issues. This service can reduce conflict, prevent unnecessary court interventions, and help parents preserve their rights while serving the best interests of their children.

Emergency Temporary Orders Mediation

We provide families and attorneys with timely assistance in settling family law issues like child custody, spousal support, and property use. Compared to traditional mediation, which can take weeks to schedule and complete, our quick-set mediation services can offer swift, fair resolutions that reduce stress and promote family stability.

Consult Our Boise Alternative Dispute Resolution Attorneys

If you are facing a family dispute, ADR may be right for you. Our attorneys at Jones Law Partners are here to guide you through your options and pursue a resolution approach that suits your needs and can save you from the hassles of litigation. Thousands across Boise and the surrounding areas have turned to us for a reason. We are lawyers for people who don't like lawyers, and we offer innovative services that deliver effective, long-lasting solutions.

Learn more about our ADR services and how they could benefit you in a consultation at our firm. Call (208) 865-8229 or contact us online today to schedule yours.

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Other Roads That Often Run Alongside This One.

Peace Of Mind Is A Place. We Know The Way.

Consultations in person or virtual. Payment plans available. Serving Ada & Canyon Counties, including Boise and Meridian.

start with 30 minutes. know what's next.

(208) 865-8229

Your First 30 Minutes

i. You Talk. We Listen.
Your story, your worries, your goals - before any legal talk.
ii. We Map Your Roads.

Mediation, negotiation, or court - what each looks like for your family, in plain language.
iii. You Leave With Next Steps.
Clear, written, and yours to keep - whether or not you hire us.