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DIVORCE MEDIATION Divorce Mediation is an alternative to a traditional litigated court divorce. As a mediator, I am a neutral party who helps you work through the issues of your divorce in order to reach a mutually agreeable settlement-one you both can live with. As a mediator I am also an educator, providing information on the legal system and how courts and lawyers might view these issues. If there are property or assets that need to be valuated, I may refer you to third parties who are experts in their particular fields. The process is voluntary which allows you to make decisions yourself and determine your own outcome, instead of leaving it to a third party (judge or lawyer.) The benefits of using a mediator are that the process is less adversarial, often saves time, and is more cost-effective than a litigated divorce. The process is confidential and based on settling disputes rather than placing the blame with one particular person. It is shown that where parties work together toward a mutual agreement, the likelihood of compliance with the agreement and future cooperation is much better. In mediation you can discuss and reach agreements on such issues as: custody, visitation, parenting plans, support, and division of your assets and debts. You will be advised to seek legal advice ( a mediator may supply you with legal information, but not legal advice) so that you fully understand the legal ramifications of the decisions you are making and discuss any questions or concerns regarding the mediation agreement. It is ultimately up to you whether or not you wish to seek legal advice. You would be best advised to have a lawyer review the proposed agreement before it is signed and finalized. Many couples ask "Is mediation for me?" If both of you approach the process with an open mind and respect for the other person and the process, you will most likely benefit from mediation. However, in situations where there has been abuse or one of the participants feels intimidated by the other this may not be the proper venue for you. Open communication is vital in crafting a mediation agreement. Both parties must be able to freely express their opinions. By working together, you may be able to save a lot of time and money as compared to a traditional litigated divorce. An added benefit is that you both control the outcome. Instead of becoming part of the adversarial system, you become part of a healing system. I adhere to high standards of the Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR) Model Standards of Practice for Family and Divorce Mediation. Contact me for a free consultation so we can discuss your case more throroughly. Sondra BenNaEim, Attorney/Mediator, (714) 619-9344
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