Divorce Mediation in Santa Rosa and Sonoma
Alternative Method to Resolve Divorce Disputes
For a large number of divorcing couples, mediation may provide a good alternative for resolving their divorce dispute. The process can work if both parties are able to voice what is important to them and behave appropriately, and is not typically appropriate in instances of domestic violence or substance abuse.
Divorce mediation is a way to resolve a divorce dispute amicably and to save both parties the time and money expended in traditional litigation of their divorce dispute. If mediation is successful, there is no need to appear in court. Speak with an experienced mediator at McBeath & Smith, to learn more.
Help from an experienced Divorce Mediator in Santa Rosa and Sonoma
A mediator is a neutral party who has been trained to help separating and divorcing couples resolve their issues. The mediator has no power to make decisions like a judge or an arbitrator. Rather, the mediator’s job is to help the parties negotiate a settlement agreement that each believes is fair enough to accept.
The mediator facilitates communication by allowing each party to speak uninterrupted, asking a party to explain or restate a point, and asking questions.
The mediator also gives the parties information about the legal system and how the issues in this case might be viewed by the attorneys and the judge. The mediator presents alternatives for resolving issues.
Attorneys help their clients during mediation in several ways:
- Advising them of their legal rights and options
- Assisting them through negotiations
- Presenting creative settlement ideas
- Preparing the required paperwork once an agreement is reached
- Reviewing the settlement agreement before it is signed
Once a settlement agreement has been signed, that agreement may be enforceable. A judgment based on the settlement agreement usually is prepared and filed with the court; that judgment is just as enforceable as any other divorce judgment.
Contact the Law Offices of McBeath & Smith to discuss representation in Santa Rosa and Sonoma divorce mediation. Please call 707-623-1876 or fill out our email form with any questions you have.