What Are the Steps of the Mediation Process?
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution for family law cases in Pennsylvania that helps the involved parties resolve remaining issues without the court’s intervention. The kinds of cases that are especially well-suited to mediation include divorce terms, post-divorce modifications, and child custody arrangements or child support outside of divorce. Having a better understanding of the steps forward in the mediation process can help you achieve a better outcome.
One of the most important steps you can take is to consult with an experienced Harrisburg family law attorney at Purdy Law early on.
Step One: Selecting a Mediator
While your trusted family law attorney will skillfully guide you through the mediation process, a professional mediator will facilitate the negotiations. The process begins by choosing a mutually acceptable mediator who serves as a neutral party.
Step Two: Preparing for Mediation
Before mediation, you will carefully gather and compile the information necessary to support your position. At mediation, you can address all the following that apply:
- Divorce
- The terms of divorce, including child custody arrangements, child support, the fair division of marital property, and alimony
- Post-divorce term modifications, which are based on significant changes in relevant circumstances
- The matters of child custody arrangements and child support for parents who were never married
Step Three: Establishing the Mediation Terms and Having a Joint Discussion
The mediator is likely to begin the process by sharing a basic outline of the proceedings and setting the rules that apply. From here, both sides come together to define their positions.
Step Four: Conducting Separate Meetings
From here, the mediator will likely go back and forth between you and your soon-to-be ex to help you assess your unique concerns and explore your best options. Their job is to clarify challenges and concerns, helping to minimize misunderstandings, and building on the compromises that you have managed to reach so far.
Step Five: Finalizing the Matter
Any terms you and your ex resolve at mediation will be included in the agreement, which will serve as the basis for your final decree. If you resolve each of the terms in question, it allows you to keep your case out of court. Doing so tends to save both money and time, to afford more privacy, and to help tone down emotional upheaval, which benefits everyone involved, including your children.
It’s important to note here that mediation is only legally binding if you and your ex both sign off on the terms you negotiate. If either of you is unwilling to do so, you will need to find another way to reach a compromise or head to court.
You Need an Experienced Attorney on Your Side
Our resourceful Harrisburg family law attorneys have earned a solid reputation for effectively and efficiently guiding our valued clients toward optimal outcomes through mediation. We’re here for you, too. Contact us online or call us at 717-674-2885 for more information today.