What can I expect at my mediation settlement?
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What can I expect at my mediation settlement?
Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process wherein a neutral third party, the mediator, facilitates a discussion between the parties to a lawsuit to promote the voluntary resolution of disputes before trial. In a mediation, each party provides the mediator with materials regarding the case to review.
What do divorce mediators do?
The mediator assists by providing information about the court system and common ways divorce issues are resolved in a divorce settlement. The Agreement: When an agreement has been reached on all issues, the mediator drafts the agreement for review by each of the parties and their attorneys, if any.
What can I expect at my first divorce mediation?
The first meeting with a divorce mediator is often spent collecting background information and facts. Once the mediator has covered the basics, each person will get to present his or her view of the issues. The mediator may ask questions to clarify the situation or to get more information.
Can a mediator finalize a divorce?
Your divorce can be finalized after mediation with a few extra steps. You and your spouse will work out the details of your divorce during mediation. The hearing itself does not take long but the judge may ask you and your spouse some questions about your Agreement during it.
Can mediators make decisions?
A mediator does not have decision-making power. You and your spouse make the decisions in your divorce while the mediator provides the information and guidance needed to facilitate successful negotiations. Being in control of your own divorce may seem risky.
Should I have a lawyer for mediation?
Typically, most mediation situations do not require the parties to obtain their own legal counsel. Mediation is designed to help people work through conflicts without the need of a judge or legal proceedings. Therefore, lawyers are seldom needed in mediation situations.
Why is mediation better than arbitration?
Resolving a dispute through arbitration is less time-consuming than going to court, but mediation is a significantly faster alternative. Once the hearing is over, parties wait while the arbitrator considers the evidence and legal arguments before issuing a ruling.
