Making the Most of Mediation
Seattle, Washington, Divorce and Family Law Attorneys
If you and your spouse can't come to an agreement on all the issues by simply talking and reasoning with one another — the courts will almost always order mediation before setting a trial date.
One thing you should know is that mediation doesn't require you to have a lawyer. However, if you want to make the most of that forum and what may be your last, best chance to avoid trial — please consider talking to an attorney before you go.
At Engel Law Group, we'd be happy to discuss the pros and cons of mediation with you and help you prepare for what to expect. We represent people in the Greater Seattle and Puget Sound areas of Washington State and you can call us at 206.625.9800 or contact us online to make arrangements for your free consultation today.
How Does the Mediation Process Work?
Although there are some forms of mediation that allow attorneys for each spouse to be present and actively involved in the process — it is generally a three person affair: you, your spouse and a neutral third-party mediator.
At times during the process, all three of you will be in the same room. At other times, you may be in separate rooms with the mediator going back and forth between. In either case, the mediator serves as a buffer that can make it easier for you to stay focused on resolving your differences over things like child custody, visitation and property division — rather than on blaming each other or trying to "win."
Advantages of Mediation
- The entire process can be completed in as little as a day
- Lower legal expenses
- Less hostility, suspicion, and resentment
- You control the outcome
- No court appearances
- Fewer future modifications
- Emphasizes the best interests of children
What Happens if Mediation Doesn't Work?
Compromise can be hard to come by where charged emotions are involved. Because of that, mediation doesn't always work. If this happens in your case and you're still seeking to avoid a courtroom battle — you may be able to convince your spouse to try the collaborative law approach to divorce before heading to litigation.
Get in touch with our Seattle, Washington, office for a free consultation to discuss all your legal options with an experienced divorce attorney. Just dial 206.625.9800 or contact us online.
