Divorce is the end of one chapter, and the beginning of another. Mediation provides forward-looking conflict resolution, creating customized solutions that meet the needs of your family and help you plan for a new future.
Agreements that last, because they work for everyone.
Mediation is a private, informal way to find agreements that everyone can live with – outside of court and without the years of conflict, stress, and high attorneys’ fees that go along with litigation. A trained mediator helps structure the process and guide the parties through each step: gathering information, discussing the legal issues as needed, exploring the emotional and financial impacts of possible solutions, and helping the parties come to an agreement that works for each of them. Parties are able to customize solutions to meet their needs rather than being constrained by the limited options available in court.
Co-parenting plans that put kids at the center.
Focusing on resolving disputes rather than “fighting it out” supports the emotional well-being of the entire family, shielding children from the devastating effects of high-conflict divorce and allowing the parties to move forward into what is next for them. In mediation, parents are encouraged to focus on their children’s well-being and to practice new communication patterns that form a solid basis for healthy co-parenting. Couples who separate in a process consistent with their values have better long-term relationships with their children, are more effective co-parents, and are happier in their own lives. .
Preserve family assets by finding common ground.
When one household becomes two, expenses go up and assets and income are stretched thin. In the midst of this difficult process, people experiencing the hurt and pain of separation often “set their money on fire” by hiring aggressive attorneys who pursue high-conflict divorce litigation. Many years and hundreds of thousands of dollars later, the hurt is only worsened and the family is in an even more difficult financial and emotional situation. Mediation is an effective alternative to this cycle of conflict, encouraging the parties to resolve conflict and focus on efficiently developing workable solutions for property division and support to move forward with their lives.
Is Mediation Right for You?
Mediation works for parties who want to reach an agreement without going to court, and who are willing to commit to a good faith effort to do so. Both parties must be willing to share relevant information and to communicate with each other in the process. Even very complicated issues can be resolved through mediation, and outside professionals (such as valuation experts, tax professionals, or parenting specialists) can be brought in to provide additional expertise as needed.
Although mediation is a great choice for many families, there are other process options that may be a better fit for some circumstances. Discuss your situation with potential mediators or collaborative attorneys to ensure that the process is tailored to fit your family’s needs.
All mediation sessions are currently conducted via videoconference.