The Mediation Process

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Are you having issues with your spouse? Whether you are going through a divorce or facing an argument that cannot seem to be resolved, you may want to consider mediation to help you through this trying time. Mediation is a form of dispute resolution where the parties work with a third party — or mediator — to help create dialogue and work towards a resolution. This can be helpful when full litigation is not necessary because it saves time, money, and stress.

Does mediation sound like something that you would like to utilize? You can learn more about the process in today’s post or get in touch with the Law Office of Jordan B. Rickards to discuss your options. Our expert divorce and family lawyer can help you through these tough situations as you work towards the best solution for you. Contact our New Jersey law office with any further questions that you may have!

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When Is Mediation Best Utilized?

Mediation can be used in a wide variety of situations, but it is often used during the process of a divorce that does not need to go to court. It can be utilized to discuss:

  • Visitation
  • Relocation
  • Marital agreements
  • Alimony payments
  • Property and asset division
  • Child custody

Throughout the mediation process, the mediator is simply present to help facilitate conversation and decisions. The parties involved will be the ones to determine the full conditions of the settlements for each issue to be discussed. In some cases, mediation can be ordered by a court to create opportunities for both parties to communicate in a fair, unbiased environment.

The Mediation Process

Introduction

To begin mediation, the mediator will meet with both parties. This can be done separately or together, depending on scheduling and the situation. During this meeting, the mediator will discuss what issues they believe need to be resolved and go over protocol of the meetings and mediation to follow.

Discussion

After the introduction, both parties will be given an opportunity to discuss and share their sides of the story. The mediator will ask for factual information and hard evidence from both parties so that issues can be fully identified and understood.

Finding A Solution

After the problems are discussed and fleshed out, the goal is for both parties to come to a solution that they both can agree upon. In some cases, the mediator may propose a solution for both parties to compromise on and reach a solution. However, in other cases it may be necessary for the mediator to meet with the individuals separately and confidentially so that they may both voice their concerns and desires without retribution from the other partner.

No matter how a resolution is made, once the agreement has been decided upon, the parties can put the decisions in writing and get a court order and legal paperwork ready. If a resolution can’t be reached and the mediation is unsuccessful, the case will need to be handled through the legal system in court proceedings.

Get Help From An Experienced New Jersey Lawyer

Whether you are in need of mediation or you simply need to discuss your upcoming divorce case with a lawyer, the Law Office of Jordan B. Rickards can assist you! Having an experienced family law attorney on your side will help you reach your goals much more quickly and easily than trying to muddle through complex legal documents and processes on your own. Visit our Milltown, New Jersey office today or give us a call to learn more about how mediation can help your situation! We look forward to helping you in any way that we can.