Why Mediation?
Mediation and Collaborative Law are two ways that couples going through a divorce can focus on what it truly important to each of them and to each other. By respecting each other’s perspective, while holding true to their own needs, couples can find a way to resolve the dissolution of their marriage in a mutually beneficial way – which also is mindful of the needs of their children.
I provide divorce and family mediation services. In addition, I also serve as a financial neutral in collaborative divorce matters.
Services
Divorce Mediation
Mediation provides an opportunity for a couple in divorce – or a family needing to resolve a seemingly intractable conflict – to maintain control over their joint decision making in a way that honors each party’s point of view. Working with a mediator helps guide the process and increase the parties ability to listen to and understand their own and each others true interests.
Collaborative Law
Collaborative law provides a way for couples going through divorce to work toward the best solution for them both. Each party retains a collaboratively trained attorney who will put together a team including a financial neutral and either a single coach or a coach for each party. If there are children of the marriage involved, there may be a child specialist added to the team. I work as a financial neutral in the collaborative process.
What Do the Mediation and Collaborative Law Process Have in Common?
Step One - Committing to the Process
Step Two - Gathering Information
Step Three - Identifying Interests
Step Four - Brainstorming Options
Step Five - Evaluating Options and Reaching Agreement
At this final step, all options are evaluated and discussed, and the process of decision making begins.
Although these steps are presented in linear fashion, it is not at all unusual for the couple to move back and forth among the steps, as needed. For example, in the process of evaluating options, the couple may be able to identify new options. The only essential factor is that the couple should not skip a step to move to a later one. It is the job of the mediator or collaborative team to make sure this doesn’t happen.