What is mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary process in which two or more parties involved in a dispute work with an impartial third party — the mediator — to generate their own solutions in settling their conflict. All parties negotiate in good faith in an effort to reach a solution without going to court. Unlike a judge or an arbitrator whose decisions subject one party to win and the other party to lose, mediation is about finding a solution that is agreeable for both parties. It is a non-adversarial approach to conflict resolution.
The mediator's role is to facilitate communication between the parties, assist them in focusing on the real issues of the dispute, and generate options that meet the interests or needs of all relevant parties in an effort to resolve the conflict.
Mediators do not advise, take sides or render a judgment. Instead, the mediator will work with all the parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable resolution and ensure that parties reach agreements in a voluntary and informed manner, not as a result of coercion or intimidation. The participants always retain decision-making power.
Although mediators sometimes provide ideas, suggestions, or even formal proposals for settlement, the mediator helps the parties identify the issues, communicate effectively, find areas of common ground, negotiate and hopefully reach an agreement. A successful mediation effort has an outcome that is accepted by both parties.
Mediation is often an attractive option for married and unmarried couples to resolve complicated issues surrounding their family law case and can actually take place before any litigation is filed, however, if litigation has already commenced, mediation is a solution to resolve the dispute before further acrimonious litigation ensues. The benefit of mediation allows all parties to reach an agreement while making the right decisions for their family.
Experience Working Through Mediation
We understand that all family law issues can affect your family's future in many ways. In many cases, mediation allows all parties to reach an agreement while making the right decisions for their family throughout the litigation process. We want to protect your best interests and provide solutions that can benefit your family's future.
At the Law Office of Alma R. Benavides, we offer comprehensive legal services in order to find beneficial solutions for family law disputes. With several years as an experienced attorney, mediator and collaborative lawyer, Alma R. Benavides will guide you throughout the mediation process, keeping you informed and involved by providing consistent communication.
Contact Us to Learn More About Mediation
If you have any concerns or questions about mediation, we can answer them today.
To schedule an initial consultation with family law attorney Alma R. Benavides, call 972-578-2600 (locally), 866-959-3826 (toll free) or contact our office today by e-mail.
Let us help you determine if mediation is right for you and your family.
