WHAT IS MEDIATION?

There is a better way to settle differences than a costly courtroom battle.  You can control the decisions that affect your family, your finances, your business and your life through mediation, a voluntary settlement process. A mediator is an impartial person who helps people in conflict make practical, informed decisions to resolve the issues before them.

HOW DOES MEDIATION WORK?

The mediator helps people examine the situation in terms of their individual needs and interests.  Relevant information is gathered which may include budgets, business records, tax returns, property valuations, and the needs of each child.  Settlement options are developed and discussed to be sure they meet everyone's goals fairly.  Positive results are realized for each party as the clients reach their own decisions. It is typically less costly than litigation, and is confidential, thus avoiding public disclosure of personal problems.

DOES MEDIATION WORK FOR SEPARATING COUPLES?

Separation is sometimes used to give a couple a chance to get a better perspective on their relationship.  Mediation can help create a custom-made separation agreement with provisions that meet each partner's needs. Interpersonal and financial issues are often included in the mediated separation agreement.

WHAT IF THERE IS A DECISION TO DIVORCE?

People trying to keep their lives under control during this difficult time can realize great benefits from mediation.  Mediators help families resolve conflicts involving custody, parenting arrangements, child and spousal support, and property and debt division.  Reducing conflict benefits children. Mediators help couples separate their spousal roles, which are ending, from their parental roles, which are continuing.  Clients learn to evaluate their present financial condition and to provide for their future financial needs.

CAN MEDIATION HELP DIVORCED PARENTS FACE CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCES?

When post-divorce modifications are needed, parents welcome having a safe, impartial environment to discuss parenting and support issues.  When appropriate and desired, mediation may also include other important persons in a family, such as stepparents.

WHAT ABOUT HABITATION AND NUPTIAL AGREEMENTS?

Mediation provides an atmosphere conducive to mutual trust in which it is easier to communicate concerns about the future and to protect legal rights.  A good nuptial or habitation agreement can avoid misunderstandings and conflict during marriage or other shared residential arrangements.

CAN MEDIATION HELP A FAMILY OR SMALL BUSINESS?

Businesses may use mediation to resolve conflict or plan for healthy changes in a cost-effective, confidential setting.