Working Together For A Fair Outcome
Mediation, as Schwartzberg Law defines it, refers to couples who proactively agree to exchange information and negotiate the necessary issues required in a settlement proposal. You do not need an independent counsel to participate in divorce mediation, and some couples save themselves this additional cost. Others prefer to appear at mediation with their attorneys present.
Taking A Proactive Approach
Unlike the court-ordered mediation or neutral case evaluation that comes late in a case, we can offer our divorce mediation service before a couple has even filed for divorce. Although we are also certified court mediators, our pre-filing mediation is different. It frees the parties from the pressure of the court’s calendar, including hearings and the antagonistic or positional nature of litigation.
Gathering Critical Information
If it appears that the other side is not being forthcoming regarding financial information or assets, we may utilize court ordered discovery to obtain tax returns, bank and credit card statements, and/or profit and loss statements. We may also work with a forensic accountant to prepare an accurate inventory and valuation of the marital estate. Even at this stage, however, there is an opportunity for negotiation.
Improving Party Communications
When children are involved in a divorce, mediation can be a particularly powerful tool. After all, you will have to communicate with your former spouse over parenting decisions and to comply with the visitation plan. Mediation can better position you for these future communications. Some clients find that they have reached a level of communication and reduced animosity with the other party that they haven’t experienced in years.
Educating You About Your Legal Options
You do not have to be in agreement when you come to us for divorce mediation. All that is required is a commitment to working together and reaching a resolution. We will help you sort out the issues, educate you about the law and negotiate a settlement that benefits everyone. We will then draft the documents for presentation to the court for its approval.
Ora’s Book
Our client-centered advocacy is also reflected in our mediation services, described in greater detail in Attorney Schwartzberg’s book, Divorce Mediation from the Inside Out: A Mindful Approach to Divorce, copies of which can be ordered via Amazon.com or Wheatmark Bookstore. For both families and business owners, mediation can be a cost-effective and practical strategy for resolving legal issues.
Utilize Our Mediation Services Today
Mediation can yield a favorable and efficient outcome. Learn more about our mediation services by scheduling an initial consultation. We are conveniently located in Plymouth. Call 603-536-2700 or complete our online contact form.