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Start your journey with BGE Mediation—where we transform conflict into cooperation. Contact us for a free consultation.

Barbara G. Esselstrom: Idaho’s trusted family law mediator. Expert in divorce, custody & property division.

Welcome to BGE Mediation, where Barbara Esselstrom brings over 15 years of experience to families across North Idaho and Eastern Washington seeking peaceful resolutions to complex legal challenges. As a certified family law mediator, Barbara serves clients from her offices in Spokane Valley, WA, and Hayden Lake, ID, specializing in divorce mediation, child custody arrangements, and equitable property division.

Barbara’s compassionate approach and deep understanding of both Idaho and Washington family law ensure expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. Whether you’re in Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, Post Falls, Spokane, or anywhere in these great states, Barbara is committed to helping you navigate family disputes with dignity and respect. She offers secure virtual appointments, making her services accessible to clients throughout Idaho and Washington, always prioritizing the well-being of children involved.

Barbara’s Philosophy

“My goal is to help Idaho families find peaceful resolutions to complex family law issues. I believe in empowering clients to make informed decisions that benefit all family members, especially children.”

How BGE Mediation help your family navigate Family Law Mediation

Family Law Mediation: Thorough Case Assessment

Case Assessment

At BGE Mediation, we understand the critical role of thorough case assessments in establishing the foundation for successful dispute resolution. We carefully evaluate your case, identifying your unique circumstances, objectives, and hopes, thus enabling us to strategize for the most favorable resolution.

  • Expert evaluation of individual family law cases
  • Detailed case analysis to inform dispute resolution strategy
  • Goal-oriented case assessment leading to optimal outcomes
  • Reliable guidance through the intricacies of case assessments
Family Law Mediation: Balanced Parenting Plans and Child Custody

Parenting Plans | Child Custody

Our team at BGE Mediation specializes in developing balanced parenting plans and handling child custody matters. We focus on the child’s best interest, ensuring that their emotional and physical needs are prioritized while also considering parents’ concerns and rights.

  • Experts in crafting equitable parenting plans
  • Child-focused approach to custody cases
  • Balancing the needs of the child with parental rights and concerns
  • Commitment to minimize stress and conflict in child custody disputes
  • Aiding parents to foster positive relationships with their children post-divorce/separation
Family Law Mediation: Effective Co-Parenting Strategies

Co-Parenting

Successful co-parenting requires effective communication, cooperation, and mutual respect. BGE Mediation is committed to fostering these attributes, helping separated or divorced parents create a positive and stable environment for their children.

  • Guiding parents towards successful co-parenting strategies
  • Promoting effective communication and cooperation among co-parents
  • Ensuring children’s wellbeing is at the forefront of co-parenting plans
  • Assisting parents in managing challenges and conflicts in co-parenting
  • Nurturing a positive, stable environment for children post-separation or divorce

Other Areas We Can Help You With

Property Division

At BGE Mediation, we assist couples in negotiating fair property division agreements, considering both marital and separate assets in accordance with state law. Our expertise ensures that the division is equitable and legally sound.

Child Support Payments

We guide parents in establishing appropriate child support payments, taking into account the financial capacities of each parent. Our goal is to ensure that the child’s needs are met without causing undue financial strain on either parent.

Paternity

Our team provides supportive assistance in paternity cases, helping establish paternal rights and responsibilities, and navigating the legal complexities of family law. We ensure that fathers have the necessary support to fulfill their roles effectively.

Third-Party Child Custody

BGE Mediation facilitates third-party child custody arrangements, ensuring the child’s best interests are prioritized, even when care extends beyond biological parents. We work diligently to create a stable and nurturing environment for the child.