Resolutions Through Negotiation and Mediation
Negotiation and mediation are alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods frequently used in family law cases. These methods can help families resolve their legal issues outside of court and in a private setting. With negotiations, parties communicate directly and/or through their attorneys to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. With mediation, the parties hire a neutral third-party attorney to serve as a mediator and help facilitate a settlement. Mediation is usually most productive and successful if each party is represented by an attorney at the mediation session since an attorney can provide legal advice, strategize, and answer any questions the party may have.
Founding attorney, Rebecca A. Poole, provides strategic and meaningful guidance to her family law clients so they are set up for success in negotiations and mediation settings.
Why Choose Negotiation And Mediation?
Negotiation and mediation can offer many benefits for families including:
- Reduced legal expenses and financial burden.
- A faster resolution and timely outcome.
- Private mediation sessions.
- Control over the outcome and ultimate decisions made.
- Reduced stress and emotional strain on all parties.
- Preservation of relationships and promotion of positive family dynamics.
As a lawyer with more than a decade of experience, Rebecca takes a personalized approach to her clients’ negotiations and mediation settings. Her professionalism and experience in family law enable her to craft solutions that address the needs and goals of each client because there is no “one size fits all” solution in family law cases. Rebecca is committed to learning the facts of your case and helping you reach a strategic solution that sets you and your family up for success in your next chapter.
Common Questions About Family Law Mediation
Knowing the commonly asked questions about mediation can help you better understand the process and what to expect. Below, Rebecca answers some of those questions to help guide you through the process.
What should I expect during a mediation session?
During most mediation sessions, each party and his or her attorney are in a separate room from the other party and attorney. The agreed upon mediator will go between each of the rooms to exchange the settlement offers, share information needed to reach a settlement, and provide the mediator’s legal perspective if he or she is asked to do so. A party and his or her attorney will have time to review and process the settlement offers exchanged and discuss strategy for reaching a mutually acceptable agreement for both parties.
How should I prepare for mediation?
It is essential to take the time and effort to prepare for mediation. Rebecca and her team will work closely with you to prepare so the mediation is as productive as possible. Some of that preparation includes:
- Meeting with Rebecca to identify your goals and priorities.
- Gather relevant documents, especially those needed to analyze the financial issues of your case.
- Have a solution-oriented mindset with a focus on finding a mutually beneficial agreement. It’s important for both parties to understand that they will not reach a settlement if they expect to get every “want” on their list.
- Select a mediator that is a good fit for your case.
How much does mediation cost compared to going to court?
The cost of mediation is generally significantly less in comparison to the cost of litigation. In most cases, parties divide the mediator’s fee in some manner. By sharing jointly in the cost, parties are usually more vested in reaching a resolution in the mediation setting. With litigation, parties are paying their attorneys to prepare for and attend court hearings that could span months or even years.
Get Started On Your Family Law Negotiation And Mediation Journey
Having sound legal advice can help you face a family law issue through negotiation and mediation. Rebecca can provide compassionate solutions to your family law matters. You can discuss your case with her in a consultation. Call us today at 919-794-3856 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation so you can get started on resolving your family law issue in an amicable way.