Mediation is a positive alternative to traditional court proceedings, especially in the family law arena which deals with sensitive and complex issues. Mediation is an out-of-court process that involves a neutral, third party [the mediator] who facilitates a conversation between spouses to help them reach a mutually satisfying resolution. Below are 10 key benefits of the mediation process.
- Cost-effective.
- The parties control the discussion and outcome.
- The mediator can provide more time and attention; the parties are not just another case number to be called by the Judge after sitting for hours in the courtroom.
- The parties do not have to feel pressured or rushed into a decision. The parties can control the tempo and the timeline based on their unique circumstances.
- Mediation leads to detailed and well-thought-out resolutions.
- Allows for greater stability post-divorce, as parties will often have a step-by-step game plan for handling issues that arise and/or they agree to return to mediation.
- The parties can agree to invite various professionals to the mediation sessions to help explore options. For example, the parties may want a mortgage lender on hand to discuss refinancing options or a CPA to discuss tax consequences of certain transactions.
- Confidential and private. If a resolution is not reached at mediation, conversations that took place during the mediation cannot be used against either party at a later date in Court. As for privacy, mediation often takes place in the attorney's or mediator's office and when an agreement is reached, a private Mediation Agreement is drafted and signed by the parties and it does not have to be filed with the Court.
- Encourages creative problem solving unique to each family, not cookie-cutter solutions/agreements.
- Preserves Relationships. Mediation encourages a respectful restructuring of the family, helping the parties to think about goals versus positions.
Attorney Jessica Pospiech Heltsley enjoys her role as a mediator. She has helped many couples successfully restructure during their divorce process and, ultimately, save a lot of time, money, and stress. If you are interested in hearing more about mediation and Jessica's process, please do not hesitate to reach out: (734) 531-8554; jessica@mifamilylawfirm.com.