Domestic Mediation
Posted by catherine jacobs on Fri, Sep 17, 2010 @ 04:02 PM
Mediation puts the Power of Choice in your Hands and Saves you Money.
Mediation is a method used to help people going through family law conflict to resolve their differences in an orderly, private and a unique, personal manner. A trained mediator, who is neutral, guides a couple through the process of discussion of issues which raise strong emotions, helps them focus on possible solutions, and maintains a respectful environment. The mediation method helps couples to make decisions that benefit everyone, allowing for the best possible outcome. The relationship with your partner does not end after a divorce or separation; you may need to keep contact with that person throughout your life because of family ties. Mediation can help foster a positive relationship by providing a resource for open discussion and creative solutions while making important family decisions.
When people in conflict cannot reach their own agreements about personal matters, the court will step in and make those decisions for you. Courts may make decisions for you that neither you nor your partner like or agree with. The court does not know the personal nature of your unique family and will make decisions based upon general conclusions and specific doctrines of law. Mediation allows the participants to create solutions that work best for them and their families. Because of their adversarial nature, court appearances and trials can increase the hostility between the two parties and put everyone, including children under added stress. With mediation, you can achieve an amicable divorce and avoid the expense and anxiety associated with litigation.
The benefits of mediation are numerous: First, it puts you and your spouse in control of important decisions that affect your property and your children. Mediation allows you to be creative and choose what works best for your family. Second, mediation is private. You do not have to air your dirty laundry in public. Third, Mediation allows you to discuss emotional issues in a respectful place. While divorce is very difficult, “ramping up emotions” is not helpful in resolving conflict. Mediation will help you create an environment of respect. Fourth, mediation allows you to schedule meetings according to your schedule, not a court docket. Fifth, Mediation is less stressful than going to court. And, Sixth, Mediation costs less than litigation, both in terms of money and emotional distress.
By: Lori Zellers Dykema Law Offices, P.C
Email me at: ljz.dykema@tds.net
