How to Resolve a High Conflict Divorce through Mediation

More often than not, divorce and custody matters are wrought with intense emotions on both sides of a dispute. Many times, parties harbor hurt feelings, which can stand in the way of settlement. Whether a case has already started down the path of litigation, or if it has not yet reached that point, mediation can help resolve even highly contentious family law conflicts.

Mediation

Mediation is often thought of as two parties and a neutral mediator in one room talking through a dispute.

While this type of mediation can be helpful for some, many people are unable to put feelings aside while in the presence of the adverse party to reach a compromise. Furthermore, if there is an uneven balance of power in a relationship, or if there has been a history of abuse, one party may be unable to fully advocate one’s own personal interests in the face of the other party’s opposition. This is where “mediation with representation” can be very effective in ensuring that a party’s interests are protected while finding creative ways to resolve legal disputes.

Mediation with representation can sometimes be done with all parties and counsel in one room together. Alternatively, mediation can utilize “shuttle diplomacy,” wherein each party is in a separate room with counsel. The mediator then travels back and forth between the rooms to communicate the terms of the negotiation until a settlement is reached.

Mediation with representation helps to remove some of the emotion from a family law conflict to allow the parties to focus on the terms that can form a settlement of the case. It also protects a client’s interests by ensuring that the legal implications of an agreement are fully understood by the client.

Bulman Dunie family law attorneys, Jane Rodgers, Esq. and Meg Rosan, Esq., have helped many clients reach favorable resolutions through mediation. In addition to representation of clients at mediation, Jane and Meg also work with clients who may elect to participate in mediation without counsel present, to discuss potential terms of settlement before and after mediation sessions, and to review any proposed agreements before they are finalized. Please contact us at (301) 656-1177 with any questions or to learn more about our mediation services.