Boca Raton Mediation Attorney

Mediation, as described by the First Judicial Circuit of Florida, is designed to open the lines of communication and allow parties to explore all settlement options in order to effectively resolve family law and divorce disputes.

A neutral third party, referred to as mediator, will help to guide the conversation and assist couples in civil discussion. The job of a mediator is to facilitate constructive discussion, not to push either side into a settlement or express biases. During mediation, couples may work to resolve disputes surrounding the issues of division of assets, division of debts, alimony, and parenting plans.

Couples may choose to enter mediation on their own, or mediation may be court-ordered. In many cases, mediation is required before a final hearing will be set.

The Benefits of Mediation

Divorcing couples have the right to make decisions about what they want to happen to their assets and debts and how they want their children to be cared for upon their separation. However, when couples cannot make these determinations on their own, they may end up in court. In court, both parties will have the opportunity to present their case to a judge, who will then issue a final ruling about how disputes are to be settled. While this can be a good thing when the relationship is so contentious that out-of-court resolution is impossible, it also takes the decision-making power out of the couple’s hands.

Mediation is preferable, because it allows you and your divorcing spouse to make your own decisions. It also provides you with the foundation for a healthier relationship moving forward, which can be especially important if you have children. Mediation can also save time and money, as it often prevents a protracted court process.