Mediation is the legal practice implemented to re-unite the broken families. With increasing rates of divorce, and co-parenting issues in Massachusetts, now this service has expanded its expertise to help couples find a peaceful solution.
We get many queries asking, “Do I need a mediator for separation? What is divorce mediation process? What to look for best co-parenting coordinator near me? How mediation can be helpful in separation, divorce, & co-parenting matters?”
It is high time to spread a word, and raise awareness regarding this critical aspect of life. Whenever you need any kind of assistance from Mediation lawyers in Massachusetts, we assure to support you with all the best we can.
Go over this comprehensive guide below.
How Mediation Lawyers, Massachusetts, Can Help in Separation, Divorce, & Co-parenting matters?
Mediation is an ultimate solution to settle disputes with your partner (a co-parent) without going to court. It might be less expensive than going to court, both emotionally and monetarily. The best part is, moving ahead and out-of-court settlement will probably make it easier for you and your spouse to cooperate.
The mediator is either neutral third party source who tries best in saving your relation, or help in divorce mediation process.
How Mediation works in Separation?
Separation and divorce are not the exclusive results of mediation. During mediation, couples receive supportive and nonjudgmental communication aid. Occasionally, a therapist who specializes in helping couples rebuild their relationships might help with this.
The biggest drawback of divorce mediation is, mediators cannot provide legal counsel. If you do not have legal representation, nobody is looking out for your interests. Nobody is giving you advice so that you can choose what is best for you. The issues in divorce might be resolved amicably in other ways other through mediation.
Why Do I Need a Mediator for Separation & Divorce?
Mediation, as alternate dispute resolution process in a separation and divorce matter must be given serious consideration over attorney-led negotiations, and the litigation (or the threat of litigation) which usually accompanies such adversarial negotiations.
In the past, separating or divorcing couples always went to a divorce lawyer to enter into a separation agreement or negotiate and often litigate a divorce. Thankfully, today mediation is becoming more widely accepted in the legal community and the court system.
Many couples believe they won’t be able to reach an agreement with their partner and that only a “divorce lawyer” can secure all of the rights they believe they are entitled to. This includes: child custody, child support, a fair division of the marital property, visitation rights, alimony, etc.
When parties try to avoid a court-scheduled deadline by reaching a settlement, it frequently happens in a frenzy and leaves one or both of the parties feeling regret.
What is Divorce Mediation Process?
When you or your spouse hire mediation lawyer for divorce mediation process, the mediator then typically meets you both for a first meeting to emphasize on the reasons of your divorce, and determine whether mediation could be helpful or not.
Once it is decided that you both wish to proceed with mediation, the mediator will serve as a neutral third party to assist you and your spouse in reaching an agreement that addresses various issues of the divorce.
This is frequently achieved through a series of meetings with the mediator, written questions from the mediator for you and your spouse. They also requests for pertinent financial documentation. Every meeting often has a predetermined agenda.
How Mediation Help in Co-Parenting Matters?
A mediator will assist you in discussing all your alternatives while keeping your eyes on the prize: a successful, amicable conclusion that benefits all parties, particularly your children.
A mediator will help you discuss all the available options, staying focused on the end goal: a positive, healthy resolution for all involved, especially for your children.
In some states, mediation is required to reach a legal co-parenting agreement. Other states allow mediation to be a voluntary step in the process. After speaking with your family attorney, make a decision about whether or not you should seek the assistance of mediator as you plan for the next best steps for your entire family.
It is with these dynamics that parenting mediation can be helpful. A parent mediator can help facilitate communication and decision-making for issues related to:
- Visitation
- Limit setting
- Holidays and vacations
- Extracurricular activities
- Education and schooling
- Child support modification
- Child-related information sharing
- Sending shared and consistent messages
- Child mental health
- Relationships with relatives
The higher the conflict, the greater the chance that children will experience negative outcomes. Research has shown a negative impact on child and adult mental health, educational and career attainment, relationships, physical health, and overall success and happiness.
The goal of parenting mediation is to strengthen the parenting relationship, protect the children from exposure to conflict, help parenting after divorce, separation or relationship break-up, and more than anything else, benefit the lives of children.
How is the Mediation Experience Different?
To reach a settlement that can be abided by all parties, a mediator takes charge of the negotiations and assists you in navigating emotional challenges of divorce.
You and your spouse will make the final decision. You decide the parameters of your child custody arrangement, separation agreement, financial settlement, and the real structure of your life after divorce.
- You set your own timetable, and you can fit mediation into your busy schedule. Sessions for mediation can be scheduled during regular office hours, in the evenings, or even on the weekend.
- Costs are under your control, you can set up mediation sessions as your finances permit. This stops the unexpected outflow of money at a critical juncture in your financial life.
- You don’t give up your legal rights, and if you need to, you can consult with an attorney. Paying an attorney for an hour or two of consultation time is far different from paying a sizable retainer and allowing them to use your funds until they run out before billing you for the remainder.
We at Mediation Lawyer Massachusetts are dedicated to provide highly customized and individualized divorce mediation services. Every step of the way, our skilled divorce attorneys in Massachusetts will fight to help you end your marriage’s problems and move on to a better future.
Are you thinking to search for best co-parenting mediator near me? Do not be hesitant to get in touch with us for best mediation services. See the advantages for yourself.