What is mediation? Often people will say that they want to go to mediate and not start a court case – but in reality, mediation is often the first step in custody or divorce cases.
Mediation is required by the court in contested cases if there are no safety concerns (alleged domestic violence). There are various types of mediation.
First, there is evaluative mediation. In this style of mediation, the mediator will give you feedback and potential options in order to help bridge gaps in a contested issue. You will need to ask the mediator to do this as generally mediators do not give opinions.
This style of mediation is extremely helpful when parties are stuck and need some independent feedback to hear perhaps a different perspective.
Second, there is facilitative or a more traditional mediation. Within this style of mediation, the mediator is truly there to facilitate a conversation, transmit offers between he parties, etc. Their role is not to give opinions, but help ensure a thoughtful and respectful conversation.
Whichever your type of mediation, mediation is an essential tool in trying to resolve cases outside of the litigation process.
Contact Moody Family Law, PLLC today for a free 30 minute consultation to discuss your child custody and divorce related questions and issues.