| Why mediation? |
Mediation allows decisions
about the restructured family to be made by the
couple instead of by the court. Through cooperative
private mediation, couples can resolve divorce
issues together: privately, respectfully, cooperatively.
It is also very cost-effective.
|
| When is private mediation
appropriate? |
Any time a couple wants to
settle their divorce in a respectful and cost
effective way, and the situation is not physically
abusive.
|
| What about attorneys? |
Each spouse should consult
an attorney if they want legal advice. Mediators
are neutral. They help resolve issues. They
do not represent either party. Attorneys must
advocate zealously for their own client.
|
| How do private and court
ordered mediation differ? |
| Private mediation is confidential.
The couple works with the co-mediators to settle
all issues. Divorce and Family Mediation meets
in a private setting and scheduling is flexible. |
| Court ordered mediation is
not confidential. Attorneys and the mediator
try to settle property issues as well as any parenting
time, custody, or child support issues. Court
ordered mediation is held in the courthouse during
business hours. If the mediation is not successful,
Friend of the Court, reports to the court and
makes recommendations. The Judge (not the couple
and not their attorneys) makes the final decision.
|
