Concerned about Mediation?

In most Missouri counties, mediation will be ordered in a dissolution of marriage in which there is a disagreement (sometimes called a contested issue) of child custody and visitation and/or issues involving money, such as child support and/or maintenance. 

There are many times when a party may be concerned about going to mediation due to the contentious relationship with their spouse, they may feel like it will be a waste of time, or maybe they feel the bargaining position they feel they are in is weak. They may feel their spouse has a stronger position, more money, better connected, etc. and because of this, it may feel hard to trust the process.

Mediation is a process in which a neutral third-party (called a mediator) facilitates communication between the parties to promote settlement. The mediator is trained to empower the parties to resolve conflict and encourage them to reach their own solution.

So, why? Why even participate in mediation? 

• It saves the parties money and time, by avoiding litigation.

• The parties decide the terms of the settlement, not the judge. It allows for the parties to design and determine their own solution.

• The parties can come up with solutions or resolutions that are not necessarily susceptible to legal determination - creativity is allowed.

• Mediation fosters cooperation and improves communication. This is particularly important if parties are co-parenting for the foreseeable future.

If you have any questions about the mediation process or are currently searching for a mediator to help you in your own matter, consider consulting with a family law attorney. Langley Law is here to help!