Family law mediation is meeting with the other party and discussing an agreement during a divorce or other family law process. A mediator is a third-party neutral who can help the parties resolve their differences. A divorce lawyer Milwaukee, WI can help you learn more, so schedule an appointment today.
How does mediation work?
When spouses or domestic partners seek legal separation or divorce, they usually have opposing views on property division, child custody, and support. The mediator can provide legal assistance to both parties but cannot counsel each party. Participants must make decisions since the mediator cannot make binding decisions. The mediator’s role is instead to foster conversation and mutual agreements. Legal counsel is not required. On the other hand, attorneys are common in advising their clients about mediation and reviewing any agreements before they are signed.
Attorneys who serve as mediators do not represent either of the parties in court. Instead, they facilitate a conclusion that is acceptable to all parties. The best potential conclusion is to avoid court and reduce costs for everyone. A family law mediation attorney can help you with the following:
- Make the issues clear.
- Consider the facts and circumstances.
- Encourage open and honest conversation.
- Help the parties in formulating a court-acceptable agreement.
Attorneys can advise other third-party mediators on legal issues and review mediation agreements.
The advantages of mediation
Mediating family law disputes reduces the psychological and emotional toll that family court imposes. Most people dealing with legal difficulties impacting their families seek a quick resolution. However, the court procedure tends to drag on when parties cannot reach specific agreements. In some states, an amicable divorce can usually be completed in six months. Still, conflicts and unwillingness to reveal financial and other information required to proceed can significantly lengthen the process. Furthermore, family law litigation is costly. If you have an attorney, the longer you spend in court, the more it will cost you.
Family law mediators can assist in resolving disputes involving:
- Divorce
- Spousal support
- Child support
- Child custody
- Legal separation
- Dissolution of a domestic partnership
- Marital settlement agreements
- Modification of support and custody
The cost of mediation is modest compared to the cost of legal representation during a trial. The parties can collaborate to reach an agreement that is agreeable to both. When a judge is left to make a decision, the outcome may not be acceptable to either party, yet, the order is binding. Working together with the help of a third party can help you avoid a trial and achieve your resolution goals.