Mediation
Angela is a licensed attorney in the State of Arizona who has focused her practice on family law. Family law encompasses divorce, legal separation, child custody (legal decision-making), parenting time, paternity, family support and more.
Recognizing the benefits of mediation, Angela made the decision to offer this as an option to parties facing family law matters. Phoenix mediation attorneys have the potential to resolve contested family law matters while preserving relationships and finances. Additionally, mediation is a confidential process. Mediation can be an excellent alternative, especially when both parties are engaged in the process.
The process of mediation is fairly simple. Both participants will come in together for a free initial 15-minute consultation. At this time mediation will be further explained and both parties will have an opportunity to ask questions. Assuming there is a decision to move forward with mediation both parties will sign an agreement.
Generally, mediation will begin after both parties sign the agreement and schedule a mutually convenient time to proceed. There are several types of mediation so depending on a number of facts Angela may suggest a caucus style of mediation. This is when the parties are in separate rooms and Angela speaks to each party separately so that agreements or compromises can be made. Another style of mediation is simply meeting in one room and reaching agreements or compromises.
While mediation may not work in every case it is a great option to consider. Mediation is confidential which will keep public information regarding your matter at a minimum, for one. Mediation provides the parties with the ability to resolve their conflict together versus a Judge making the decision for them. If you believe that mediation is not an option Angela is available to speak to you about representation, provided both parties have not previously met with Angela to discuss mediation.
Why Choose A Mediation Attorney?
There are reasons people chose to mediate their divorce versus litigating their divorce. You need to weigh those for yourself and decide whether or not mediation will better suit you.
I offer an interesting perspective because I am a phoenix divorce lawyer and litigator. On the other hand, when my first marriage ended it concluded by mediation. In the interest of reasonable disclosure, my ex-husband and I did not seek formal mediation but rather mediated between ourselves. That being said, it was a mediated divorce. Additionally, I never regret proceeding in that manner. My divorce had very different facts and circumstances than most clients I work with, so you must take your facts and circumstances into account when weighing your options.
One obvious benefit to mediation is usually cost. A litigated divorce, depending on the issues, can reach $18,000 per party. However, I have seen some mediators charge $400 or more per hour. Another cost to consider is your emotional well-being and mental health. Litigation is difficult emotionally and adds to the stress of a divorce.
Alternatively, a husband or wife may push for mediation because they have consulted an attorney and know or believe that they have more exposure to litigation, such as paying spousal maintenance.
Mediation is private, whereas litigation is not. All pleadings and orders become public information. If you decide to mediate and full agreements are not reached then you will proceed to litigation. If you do reach full agreements, then they must be reduced to a writing and submitted to the court for review and approval.