Mediation

Mediation is a process in which a neutral individual is used to assist the parties in resolving the issues on their own. Our attorneys have served as mediators in a variety of circumstances. Sometimes the parties come to us prior to filing a legal action. We assist them, both in resolving the conflict and in guiding them through the process of an uncontested divorce. Sometimes we mediate specific issues during a divorce, such as the details of a child visitation schedule. Even after the matter is concluded, the parties may find that they have unexpected problems. For example, they may have been unsuccessful in an effort to divide personal property, and hope to resolve the difficulties without returning to court.

A mediated settlement has many advantages, not the least of which is a savings in cost. When individuals have had a chance to fully participate in a negotiation, they are more likely to obtain a result which is best tailored to their needs. Many people feel that parties are more likely to abide by a voluntary agreement than one imposed by a court.

Mediation does require that the parties have full access to all relevant information, and are able to participate in negotiation sessions in which their spouse is present.

Finally, it is very important to appreciate that when we serve as mediator, our role is very different from that in an attorney-client relationship. We’ll be happy to provide you with further information and help you decide if mediation is right for you.