FAMILY LAW MEDIATION
Maryland Family Law Mediation
Family law mediation is mediation for disputes in actions for divorce, annulment, establishment of paternity, child custody or visitation, and child or spousal support.
Mediation is a process in which the parties appear before an impartial third party who does not have authority to adjudicate (make a formal decision) the dispute; however, by applying mediation techniques generally accepted within the professional mediation community, assists the parties by identifying the issues and interests of both parties, exploring settlement alternatives, and fashioning the basis of an agreement.
Mediation can be very beneficial to both parties, especial if any children are involved because it promotes resolution rather than adversarial procedures. Below is a list of some advantages of mediation over litigation:
- Studies show that families who mediate their differences have a substantially better after-divorce relationship than families who litigate their differences.
- Mediation is usually less expensive than fighting a costly court battle (Hourly mediation rates from private providers range from $40 to $150.).
- Mediators use a variety of negotiating techniques to help parties reach a mutually agreeable solution to their differences. The final decisions are the parties, not the mediator’s, because both have had a say in how to deal with the issues that are important to them. In divorce mediation, the couple controls how and when decisions get made, rather than attorneys and judges.
If you decide to engage in the mediation process, it is still beneficial for you to speak with an attorney. In fact, parties will be advised by the mediator to seek advice from their attorneys. It is also recommended that an attorney review the final settlement agreement because mediators do not give legal advice to the parties; they facilitate the resolution process.
It is particularly important for both parties to seek legal advice before signing the mediated agreement because it is a contract. Thus, once your reach a mediated agreement and it is signed by both parties, the decision is binding.
Our legal teal can help you! Call us today so we can effectively answer your questions and concerns, reviewing your legal document, and advise you of your legal options.
CONTACT MARYLAND FAMILY LAW MEDIATION LAWYER FOR HELP
The Burton Law Firm understands how divorce can affect you and your family’s life indefinitely. Having years of experience handling all types of divorce cases throughout the state of Maryland, you can trust us to handle your case with care. Give us a call at (301) 420-5540 to speak to a divorce lawyer in Maryland.
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Contact our office as soon as possible so our team of Family Law attorneys can properly evaluate your case and protect your rights.