Mediation is a valuable tool for the litigants due to its ability to achieve fair and lasting agreements. Most individuals and families can successfully resolve divorce and other civil disputes using mediation. This means less time in court and a more effective final agreement in which the parties have collaborated in reaching. Mediation can be effective for family law issues, such as divorce, parenting plans, or asset distribution. Mediation is particularly useful in civil disputes, such as easement problems, disputes over contracts, or employer/employee issues.
Mediation is a non-adversarial, cooperative method intended to clear the way for open and helpful communication between the parties. Mediation is particularly helpful where the parties will be involved in an ongoing relationship after the dispute is resolved (e.g., families, business associates, landlords and tenants, etc.). The mediator makes sure that all parties have an equal chance to be heard and to express emotion and frustrations that may be interfering with settling the matter. The mediator helps to identify the issues and explore possible solutions that are acceptable to both sides. Anything that is discussed in the course of the mediation is completely confidential. Particularly where the parties engage in mediation before filing for divorce or a lawsuit, no other attorneys are involved. Mediation is the least formal of the alternative dispute resolution paths, and typically keeps costs at a minimum.
An attorney in the role of a mediator serves as an impartial third party to help people in conflict negotiate and resolve their disputes. The goal is to create a fair and durable agreement reflecting the needs and interests of all parties. Mediation of a dispute can easily be accomplished before the parties ever file a lawsuit or divorce. A mediator does not give opinions on how the case should be resolved, or advocate for either party.
Our office can prepare all the documents necessary to present to the Court a completely resolved dispute, oftentimes without the need for the parties to appear in Court.