Mediation Is About Reaching A Solution That Works

What Are The Many Benefits Of Mediation?

Mediation is often an exhausting yet worthwhile process. When clients contact me, I expect them to be committed to finding a solution that works. Because both parties actively participate in the resolution, they’re more likely to honor the agreements reached. Mediation allows parties to handle their disagreement on their own terms and also allows the creativity that you will not find when a judge determines your fate.

Why Choose Mediation: Guiding Families Through Conflict

Working with an experienced mediator who understands the law can be highly beneficial. Having handled many mediations, I’ve seen the overwhelming majority lead to successful resolutions. Due to the nature of the process, mediation is a great opportunity to resolve problems for three primary reasons:

• Finding closure: When the mediation is finished, you can walk out and move on with your life. At the end of the process, you have a signed agreement assuring that both sides are committed to keeping their promises. For divorcing individuals, it’s a chance to reestablish communication, especially when children are involved.
• Building bridges: When honest communication is reestablished, parties are able to rebuild bridges that have been broken and work toward success in the future. If there are children involved, this communication can provide the necessary framework to work together in the best interest of the children and provide your children with the best opportunity to establish their own healthy relationships.
• Reducing risk: You’re more likely to follow a solution you helped create. Mediation also provides the flexibility to develop a solution that meets all your needs.
• Lowering costs: Mediation is generally less expensive than going to court. Oftentimes, when a case goes to court, it sits on a judge’s calendar for an extended period of time and may include multiple hearings. All of this time adds up to money spent on attorney fees, research and evidence gathering.

Mediation can not only benefit you, but it can also reduce risks and provide more control over the outcome of your family law disputes, estate disagreements or other civil matters. Choosing this path always takes far less time and usually results in a settlement on the day of the mediation.

Creative Solutions Through Mediation

Mediation provides the opportunity to be creative. A court will view the issues as black and white. In mediation, you know what solutions will truly work, whether it involves dividing assets and debts, establishing parenting plans, resolving civil disputes or addressing other issues.

Becoming creative during mediation leads to solutions more rapidly and, more importantly, agreements that each side is more likely to follow. This collaborative approach can foster easier resolutions in the future, potentially preventing the need for further mediation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediation

I understand you may have questions about mediation. These frequently asked questions can help you better understand the mediation process and how it can benefit you.

What makes mediation more effective than going to court?

Mediation offers a more flexible and creative approach than going to court. In court, a judge applies strict legal rules, which may not address everyone’s unique needs. Mediation allows parties to create their own satisfactory solutions. It encourages open communication, while court battles can be adversarial and stressful.

How successful is mediation in actually resolving disputes?

Mediation is often successful in resolving disputes. I’ve found that most cases entering mediation result in an agreement. This is because mediation allows the parties to control the outcome and find common ground. While there isn’t a guarantee of successful resolution, the collaborative nature of mediation greatly increases the chances of a positive result compared to court.

What are the cost and time benefits of choosing mediation over litigation?

Mediation offers time and cost savings compared to litigation. Court cases can take months or years, with significant legal fees. Mediation is often resolved in a single day or a few sessions, resulting in lower attorney fees and less stress. The faster resolution lets you move forward more quickly.

How does mediation help preserve relationships, especially when children are involved?

The mediation process is facilitated through communication and cooperation, which can help preserve relationships, especially when children are involved. Unlike at court, mediation encourages parties to work together to find solutions. This collaborative approach can foster a better co-parenting relationship, reducing conflict and promoting the well-being of children.

Explore Mediation Solutions With An Experienced Lawyer Today

The overwhelming majority of my mediation engagements produce mutually acceptable agreements. If you’re ready to explore mediation, contact my Edwards office at 970-926-6636 or send me an email for a consultation about your situation.