Family Mediation
Family dynamics present unique obstacles that can stand in the way of rational and reasonable decision-making. Productive conversations may be difficult or impossible to have. How does one even begin to have one of those difficult conversations with a family member? Mediation can help with that.
For divorcing couples, emotional and financial strain is high. Litigation can add to that stress, and many couples choose to avoid it entirely and mediate the range of issues that need to be addressed when divorcing. In some cases, however, litigating couples may choose to mediate only discreet issues. They may be “stuck” on a particular item, and even a collaborative process isn’t helping nor is direct negotiations between their attorneys. Mediation can provide a chance to take a step away from the larger process to work on a few particular issues.
Mediation has been used successfully by separating and divorcing couples fighting about finances or the children. Mediation can also be used for temporary separations or a long-term separation without divorce. It is also used by parents who are not a couple but who need to resolve support, custody and/or visitation issues with the other parent. Specific issues are addressed on an as-needed basis.
Long term relationships outside of formal marriage may share some of the same basic issues as divorcing couples. Mediation allows creative problem-solving for situations where there is no underlying legal structure dictating an outcome.
Intact families as well may face major decisions that are not easily resolved on their own and can benefit from the mediation process, such as in relocation, career change and retirement.