Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), in which a trained neutral third party, the mediator, helps parties develop and exchange proposals to settle a dispute. Unlike an attorney, whose job is to advise their client and advocate for their best interests, a mediator does not work for one side or the other, nor do they act as a judge; their job is to facilitate discussion so that the parties can find a mutually agreeable solution.

Divorce mediation can help couples reach a settlement agreement with less stress and more input than they may experience in the litigation process, but divorce is not the only kind of dispute that mediation can help resolve. Family mediation can help parents settle child custody disputes and address other conflicts in a productive way.

Much of the time, divorce mediation and other family mediation can take place before a court process even begins, minimizing court involvement in family matters.

Advantages of Divorce Mediation and Family Mediation

Litigation is almost always the most expensive way to resolve a divorce or other family dispute, so settling a case through mediation or other forms of ADR is often more cost-effective. Mediation is also often a quicker way to resolve a dispute; the parties can proceed on their timetable, not the court’s.

Because litigation is by definition adversarial, mediation can also be a better choice for parties who have to continue to interact with each other. For instance, divorcing parents who need to cooperate to co-parent their young children can usually do so more cordially after mediation than after a contentious court battle.

Mediation emphasizes working together to solve problems, rather than trying to win at the other person’s expense. As such, it creates a good foundation for future problem solving; this is especially helpful for divorced or separated co-parents. In addition, mediation offers parties more flexibility, and the chance to come up with creative solutions that work for them and their family.

Mediation Services to Make Life Changes Easier

As a life changes attorney, I have been helping my clients resolve divorce, custody, and other family transitions for over 20 years. My mediation services can be customized to meet a family’s or individual’s unique needs, including:

  • Serving as a neutral mediator, whether attorneys participate or not
  • Recommending potential mediators to my clients
  • Participating in and advocating for my clients at mediation sessions
  • Advising and developing mediation strategy with my clients who participate in mediation on their own
  • Drafting and formalizing mediated settlement agreements on behalf of my clients
  • Reviewing, advising about, and revising mediator or opposing counsel drafted settlement agreements

Mediation gives a family a voice in and control over the outcome, while maximizing creative problem solving for the benefit of their unique needs.

To learn more about divorce negotiations in Maryland and how to reach a negotiated settlement that works for you, check out my blog or contact me to schedule a consultation.