How A Mediator Can Help with Domestic Problems, Division of Property, Alimony, Support, and Child Custody:
Mediation Provides a Neutral Ground:
Mediation offers a neutral space where both parties can express their concerns without the adversarial atmosphere of court. Spouses going through a divorce can sit down with a trained, neutral mediator who helps facilitate the conversation. Although mediation can occur virtually if needed, our conference rooms allow the parties to interact in a neutral, safe space.
Mediation Promotes Improved Communication:
Our trained mediators encourages open dialogue. For example, they may help the parties articulate their feelings in order to help the other parties understand better. By fostering better communication, common ground can often be found where the parties can creatively resolve their disputes.
Our Mediators Focus on the Important Interests:
Instead of getting stuck in positions (e.g., who should keep the house), the mediator can help parties dividing their marital assets identify their underlying interests; thus, for many couples it is important to ensure that their children feel stable and secure. This focus allows them to explore creative solutions.
Mediation Gives Control Over Outcomes to Both Parties Equally:
Unlike in court, where a judge makes decisions, mediation allows both the spouses to have a say in the outcomes. They can negotiate terms that suit both parties, such as a co-parenting schedule that works for their family.
Domestic Mediation Saves Money and Time:
Mediation is typically less expensive and quicker than litigation. This saves both time and money which allows the family to move forward without lengthy court battles. This can help families–particularly children–heal more quickly.
Mediation is Much Less Stress Emotionally:
The collaborative nature of mediation can reduce the emotional toll of divorce and deciding child custody issues. By working together to reach agreements, the parties involved may leave the process feeling more satisfied and less resentful of each other. This is particularly important where children are involved as the parties are likely to have to interact at school functions, sporting events, and at milestones (such as birthdays, graduations, and weddings).
Domestic Mediation is Confidential:
Mediation is a private process, which means that personal matters discussed won’t become part of the public record. This is a significant factor for most people as they do not want their “dirty laundry” to be made public. This confidentiality helps both parties feel safe in sharing their concerns and allows for a more creative approach to problem solving.
How an Arbitrator Can Help Make the Divorce Process Easier for Everyone Involved (Including the Children)
Arbitration Results in a Binding Decision:
When parties decide to use arbitration in lieu of litigation, then need to select an experienced arbitrator who will review their case and make a binding decision. This means they won’t have to return to court for a final resolution or go before a jury.
Our Arbitrators Have Subject-Matter Expertise:
Our domestic law arbitrators are knowledgeable about family law and understand the complexities of asset division and support issues. Their expertise ensures that the decision is fair and based on legal principles.
Arbitration is Faster Than Court Proceedings:
Unlike court, where cases can take months or even years to be heard, arbitration can be scheduled more quickly. Most people are able to finalize their divorce in a matter of weeks, which allows them to move on with their lives and, if applicable, offer stability and security to their children.
Domestic Arbitration Provides a Less Formal Environment:
Arbitration is typically less formal than court, making it a more comfortable setting for both parties. The parties can present their cases and evidence without the rigidity of courtroom procedures or the “prying eyes” of the public.
Domestic Arbitration Provides Focused Decision-Making:
The arbitrator listens to both sides and considers the relevant evidence before making a decision. They are third-party neutrals trained in the art of arbitration with a particular understanding of the dissolution of marriage, the division of property, and child welfare.
Arbitration is a Confidential Process:
Arbitration is private, meaning that the details of the divorce cannot be shared publicly. Thus, the parties’ financial situation and their personal lives remain confidential, unlike a court case that is part of the public record (and may be open to spectators or the press in the courtroom).
Arbitration Provides Finality and Certainty:
Once the arbitrator makes a decision, it is binding. This finality can reduce ongoing conflict and uncertainty, allowing both divorcing parties to plan for their futures with clarity.