Mediation is an alternative way to resolve virtually any family law case.  Due to the often ongoing relationship between the parties and the personal matters at stake, many parties benefit from mediating their domestic relations cases including cases involving:

Divorce

Mediation is commonly requested as part of a divorce.  Some states require parents to go through mediation if their divorce involves minor children.  Divorce often involves a number of key issues and may be less expensive when most of the issues can be resolved without the court’s intervention.  A mediator is sometimes tasked with helping the parties decide how to divide their property in a fair manner.

Parenting Plan

Mediation may be able to help parents develop a parenting plan as part of their divorce or as a stand-alone plan.  Many states are abolishing the rigid structure of having a primary custodial parent and another parent who only has time every other weekend with their children in favor of carefully structured parenting plans that allow both parents meaningful access with their children.

Separation

A mediator can help the parties reach an amicable separation if they are not yet ready for a divorce. Having a mediator in place allows the parties to create some boundaries and structures around new living situations.  The parties can agree on how to split up certain assets, debts and income while they are separated.  They may also reach an agreement regarding spousal or child support during this transition period, which may sometimes last years.

Child Support

While all states have formulas in place to determine the proper amount of child support, these guidelines may not always be appropriate when unique circumstances are involved.  Parents may be able to make decisions about support that work better for their family, such as agreeing on post-secondary education or on expenses for a disabled child.