Family Mediation
Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator
Mediation is a method of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that uses an impartial third party, called a mediator, to facilitate discussion between parties. Unlike arbitration, a mediator does not make decisions for the parties, nor give legal advice. The mediator helps parties exchange information and pinpoint problems to arrive at a settlement.
During mediation, couples may have access to other professionals, such as lawyers, financial advisers, estate planners, therapists or other experts to help them make informed decisions.
Mediation may help resolve matters subject to divorce, such as:
- Visitation
- Child custody
- Child support
- Maintenance (alimony)
- Property division
Use of a mediator is not limited to divorce and may be used for:
- Paternity actions
- Prenuptial and post nuptial agreements
- Post judgment modification
- Enforcement of orders
Whether addressing a single issue or a number of issues, mediation offers many benefits for resolving family law disputes.
Advantages of Mediation
- Minimal court involvement
- Confidentiality for private matters
- Agreements reached outside of court
- Time lines based on the couple’s ability to deal with issues
- More versatility to arrive at innovative solutions
- Resolutions oriented toward benefiting both spouses and the children
- Couples remain in control instead of a judge
- Assets preserved by avoiding costly litigation
- Less time-consuming than a lawsuit
Mediation may resolve all or just some issues, in which case, unresolved issues may be litigated or handled through arbitration. However, even quarrelsome couples who have trouble agreeing on many matters often find they reach compromises through mediation, at least on some of their issues.
As a Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator, Carmen M. Morales is very effective in assisting couples to resolve their disputes. To arrange a consultation, please call our Florida law firm in Miami at 305-379-4221.
