The nature of the divorce process involving litigation is to fight each other to win. Each party hires
their own attorney to fight in court for the most they can get, without thinking about what each party actually needs or wants.
This is not necessarily in anyone's best interest, especially when children are involved.
What
is mediation and is it for you?
Mediation has emerged over the
last decade or so as an impressive alternative for couples to resolve their disputes through a negotiated settlement.
With the help of a mediator, a divorcing couple will make their own decisions about the issues surrounding the separation
of the couple.
The Court system is even using mediation in their environments. Supreme
Court in Nassau County is requiring parent coordinators and therapists to be paid by the litigants to help in settling
the cases even after a significant amount of money has been laid out to attorneys. Family Courts are beginning
to use mediators to deal with custody, visitation and support issues even when you have already and continue to spend money
on attorneys.
Studies have shown that children fare much better, in divorce or separation, when both
parties work together to dissolve a marriage.
The mediator, as a neutral party, is positioned
to intervene on behalf of the children and promote an agreement which is in the best interests of everyone involved.
You make your own decisions about your future, including property distribution, access to children, custody and
parenting time arrangements, health insurance, and spousal maintenance (alimony).
How
much does it cost?
Mediation is significantly less costly, faster, and more importantly, it
keeps a separation from turning into an ugly battle where everyone loses.
The average mediation takes
from 4 to 6 hours. Once the mediation is completed, our attorney will draft the legal Separation Agreement or Divorce
Stipulation for which there will be a modest fee.
MASTER & VISA CARDS ARE ACCEPTED.
My spouse and I can barely talk to each other, how can we mediate?
Mediation will work for couples who are amicable, as well as those who find it difficult to communicate with each
other. With the training our mediators have, we are able to diffuse the negative feelings and help each of you present
your needs. At that time, all that is required is a willingness to look for a fair way to settle the issues that must
be decided. Mediation often helps people learn to communicate better.