|
What is it?
Mediation utilizes a neutral professional, who may be a lawyer, mental health professional or simply someone with an interest in Mediation. I am a lawyer who has twenty plus years of Mediation training. As a third party neutral I encourage the parties to make their own decisions as opposed to having the decisions made for them in a court. In the process, I work with you and your partner to come to agreement on all issues. It is important that you and your partner learn to talk directly to each other. The Mediation process involves all three parties at every meeting. As the process begins, both parties benefit from having the mediator help them to really hear and understand each other.
The goal is to build enough trust among all parties so you and your partner feel comfortable voicing your own needs, as well as hearing -- and even supporting -- the needs of your partner. When Mediation succeeds, the dynamic of communication shifts. It moves away from fear and blame and toward win-win for both parties. I may also recommend that we make use of other professionals - financial, mental health, business evaluators, appraiser and certified public accountants -- to help us resolve particularly complex issues. These professionals can help us move the process along if a temporary stall occurs. As a lawyer-mediator I can draft and file your agreement and all necessary documents.
Is it right for you?
In this process, the parties take an active role in structuring a mutually
acceptable agreement. You and your partner accomplish this by working together with the help of a mediator. It is right for you if you and your partner want a respectful resolution of the issues and want to keep available the possibility of maintaining friendship and co-parenting relationship with your partner. It's the right choice if you and your partner want to commit to an intelligent, creative and peaceful restructuring of your family life.
How does it differ from Collaborative Practice?
There is only one lawyer instead of two. Not all mediators are attorneys, but I am a lawyer with over twenty years of Mediation experience. The goals and objectives are similar to those of Collaborative Practice.
Other team professionals:
Other professionals may be used as necessary, such
as financial professionals, mental health professionals who serve as coaches, business evaluators, appraisers or certified public accountants.
|
