Mediation is a tool frequently used in family court. Mediation is often part of divorce cases but can also be used in child custody disputes outside the divorce process. With mediation, you could resolve disputes without the cost and stress of a drawn-out lawsuit.
Throughout the divorce process, seeking guidance from an experienced divorce attorney is vital—even when your case goes to mediation. Having another opinion on whether a reasonable settlement offer is a good idea is crucial to a successful and fair resolution. A Lincoln County mediation lawyer could lead this process, keeping your best interests in mind.
Mediation involves using a neutral third party, a mediator, to settle disputes. This person—often a retired judge—facilitates negotiations and helps bring both sides to a consensus on the disputed aspects of a divorce. Often, negotiations are most productive with a mediator, as they keep the discussion focused and avoid conflict.
Mediation can occur during an active divorce case but is not a court proceeding. It typically takes place at the mediator’s office. The mediator does not hear evidence or decide right versus wrong in these cases; they also don’t pick sides. Instead, a mediator’s role is to guide both parties toward consensus on contested matters like child custody or visitation.
Mediation is not binding unless both parties agree. However, compromises made in the process often prove beneficial during or before a divorce filing. A dedicated mediation attorney serving Lincoln County could help a person navigate each step of the mediation process.
There are several benefits of mediation compared to traditional divorce. Often, mediation is less costly and time-consuming. While a divorce lawsuit can take years to resolve, mediation is often successful early in the process. This shorter time frame also leads to lower costs.
Mediation is also private. While divorce proceedings occur in public court, mediation is always practiced behind closed doors. Both parties can keep their intimate family details away from the public eye—as these discussions are often quite personal. A skilled Lincoln County marriage dissolution lawyer could help resolve divorce or family dispute issues through mediation without airing out private family information.
Parties agree to mediation for several reasons. While the court can require mediation, parties often agree to mediation before a divorce petition is filed.
Sometimes, both sides agree that mediation is worth trying. Voluntary mediation can happen early in the divorce process.
Mediation could be a viable option for you when you face a divorce or custody dispute. It is typically less costly than divorce and gives you more control over the proceedings. During this challenging time, control, privacy, and guidance are paramount for you and your family.
Contact a well-versed Lincoln County mediation lawyer today to discuss your options during a confidential consultation. At Addair Law, our lawyers are equipped to help you seek your desired outcomes.
