Mediation provides a helpful way to resolve disputes in many different family law situations. Instead of a drawn-out court battle mired in frustration and stress, the mediation process attempts to foster mutual understanding and respect as the basis for resolving family disputes.
At Jones Law Firm, PC, our Denver family mediation attorneys are dedicated to a mediation process that protects the needs and concerns of all family members, including children.
We will work closely with you during the mediation process to:
- Enable each party to voice their concerns and grievances in a safe, supportive environment while working to reach a solution that addresses these issues with fairness and respect
- Apply your attorney’s guidance and legal support to explore viable alternatives to a contested hearing so you can make informed decisions for the wellbeing of your family
- Use positive negotiation methods to resolve key issues such as child custody, child support, visitation, maintenance, and division of marital property
In addition to providing a more cooperative approach to solving family concerns, mediation tends to be more cost-effective and less time-consuming than traditional divorce litigation. Mediation can be particularly beneficial for high-net-worth divorce cases involving complex assets, including real estate, unique property, business interests, and retirement accounts.
What is divorce mediation?
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that takes place outside of court. During divorce mediation, both spouses, along with their attorneys, meet with a mediator to work out the terms of the divorce. The mediator is a neutral third party like a judge, but unlike a judge, the mediator does not have authority to make decisions. Instead, the mediator uses various techniques to help the parties reach an agreement on important topics, including property division and child custody, in an effort to avoid trial and remain amicable. Another benefit to mediation is that it is a completely confidential process. This enables both parties the opportunity to be heard and have their positions thoroughly considered without the added complication of having those positions being presented in court.
Is mediation required in Colorado?
The state of Colorado does not require divorce mediation, but many counties in the Denver metropolitan area do. If the spouses choose to pursue mediation, or are required to, mediation will be scheduled at an agreed time and place. The Office of Dispute Resolution offers mediation coordination as well as discounted mediation services for parties who qualify.
What are the benefits of mediation?
Mediation has many benefits over litigation, including:
- Greater affordability and cost-effectiveness
- Faster resolutions in most cases
- Less stress during the divorce process
- More personalized solutions
- Greater privacy
In particular, spouses with children often find mediation to be a better alternative to traditional divorce. Mediation can allow children to be involved and have their voices heard, while fostering a friendlier environment for spouses to discuss concerns and come to an agreement.
How do I prepare for divorce mediation in Colorado?
Spouses preparing for divorce mediation are asked to write up a pre-conference statement, also called a confidential settlement statement. In a pre-conference statement, each spouse describes factors to be addressed including:
- The issues they need to resolve during mediation
- That spouse’s specific needs and interests relating to each of the issues listed
- A description of what that spouse believes the needs and interests of the other spouse to be
Additionally, spouses and their attorneys should bring relevant documentation to the mediation, including financial documents, parenting plan, and child support or maintenance worksheets.
What can I expect at a divorce mediation?
During mediation, spouses can expect to engage in conversation with the other party and mediator. The mediator remains neutral throughout the entire process and aims to understand the needs of both parties to help facilitate a favorable solution. It is important for spouses to keep in mind that a mediation is not a debate, and there is no winner or loser. The primary goal of mediation is to provide a safe space for both spouses to iron out important details and meet in the middle to come to an agreement that works for both parties.
Choose Jones Law Firm, PC, for mediation representation in Colorado
At Jones Law Firm, PC, our Denver family mediation attorneys understand how to take advantage of the less combative atmosphere offered by the mediation process while still striving to protect your interests and achieve your objectives. Talk to us today to learn how mediation could help resolve the unique challenges in your case.
