Mediation Can Offer Peaceful, Fair Solutions
Mediation is a process in which parties hire a neutral third party to help them negotiate an agreement. Typically, mediators have education and experience in law, social work or mental health.
A mediator does not represent either party and therefore cannot give advice to either party. Mediation may occur with parties who have hired attorneys or who are not represented by counsel. The mediator helps parties frame their issues, gives direction and focus to the parties, and can provide information about the range of possible outcomes for them. A skilled mediator can help parties resolve even the most difficult and painful disputes with dignity.
At Friedrich & Fletcher, S.C., Lisa Friedrich offers mediation services to clients. Our attorneys also represent individual clients in a range of divorce methods and other family law disputes.
How Mediators Serve Couples In Divorce
Divorcing and separating couples, both traditional and nontraditional, can use a mediator to help them reach agreements as to how to divide their property, raise their children, and support themselves and their children.
In most situations, after an agreement is reached, the parties want it reduced to writing. Some mediators draft letters or memoranda summarizing the parties’ agreements, after which the parties or their attorneys prepare any legal documents required by the court system. Some attorney-mediators serve as a draftsperson for the parties and draft the formal documents necessary to finalize their separation or divorce.
Questions About Mediation In Divorce
Mediation is often far more productive than litigation in family law situations because it encourages a cooperative approach and can provide creative solutions. Here are the answers to some common questions our clients have:
What type of family law issues can be resolved through mediation in Wisconsin?
Mediation can be used to resolve virtually any family legal issue. It can help you negotiate the terms of your divorce, including the division of property, debts and spousal support, establish custody of the children, and create a workable parenting plan. Mediation can also be used to change existing support and custody agreements.
How does the mediation process work in Wisconsin?
Generally, both parties agree on a qualified, neutral third party to serve as a mediator. The mediator may meet with each party individually to better understand their perspectives and goals. Then the mediator will facilitate the sessions and guide both parties toward productive discussions and compromises. The mediator does not take sides and will not make decisions. If an agreement is reached, the mediator will draft the settlement and submit it to the court for approval.
How long does the mediation process typically take?
It varies greatly. For straightforward situations where both parties are willing to cooperate, it could require one or two sessions that are a few hours long. In complex cases or situations where either party is resistant to compromise, it can take several weeks or months to resolve a dispute.
What are the benefits of choosing mediation for my divorce?
Mediation is generally less expensive than litigation because it reduces the time and legal fees that go along with litigation. Mediation sessions are also private, while court proceedings are public, which can be important to a lot of families. Finally, mediation is collaborative, not adversarial, which means that couples are generally able to come to faster resolutions, maintain their respectful relationship and find a more satisfying outcome than what they might receive if a judge makes all the decisions.
Is mediation legally binding?
Only once an agreement is made and the court reviews and approves it – but not until.
Call Us To Discuss Mediation
Mediation can be a favorable solution to couples who seek cost-effective, customized divorce. Call us in Madison at 608-258-4660 or email us to schedule a free consultation. Lisa Friedrich prioritizes finding positive solutions that match the needs of our clients.