Greenville, South Carolina Family Mediation Services
Family court matters such as divorce and custody cases can make you feel like you're losing control. A contested case is the essence of lost control because a total stranger in a black robe will be deciding the outcome of your case and dictating how you parent your children or how your marital estate is divided. If you would like an alternative to this kind of separation or divorce, I encourage you to consider mediation of your divorce.
How do you maintain control?
Mediation. In mediation you and the other parent will work with a mediator (a neutral third party) to reach a voluntary agreement that keeps you in control of the outcome of your case. Instead of leaving the final decisions about your family and finances up to a complete stranger, you and your spouse will negotiate the terms of your separation agreement with the assistance of an experienced, certified Family Court mediator.
Most mediations do not involve both parties sitting across a conference table from one another ready to negotiate like titans of industry. Instead, you will each have your own conference room and the mediator will travel back and forth between the rooms to discuss the issues and exchange offers. Most mediations last several hours, but the hopeful outcome is a signed agreement ready for presentation to the South Carolina Family Court for approval.
When do we mediate?
Mediation can take place at different times in your case. There is no right or wrong answer.
When everyone involved has the desire to reach an agreement early in the case and has enough information from one another to negotiate fairly, it makes sense to mediate prior to filing an action to attempt to reach a full agreement early on without the need for expensive litigation.
Sometimes, cases do not start out with the intention or desire to settle or the parties are not on equal footing when it comes to knowledge of the matters at hand. After some discovery and litigation when the parties have obtained the knowledge needed they are in a better position to negotiate and settle their case.
Do I need an attorney?
Having an attorney walk you through the process of a your divorce or custody matter is always helpful. A mediator does not represent either spouse and cannot give either party legal advice. So, if you need legal advice before you can reach an agreement with your spouse, we recommend having an attorney prior to mediation.
Will you go to court with us?
When you complete your mediation, you will leave the office with a signed mediation agreement that details the specifics of your mediated agreement.
You will need to hire a lawyer or file on your own to have your agreement approved by the Family Court.
How much does mediation cost?
Mediation fees are shared equally by the parties unless they agree to a different allocation of the fees.
My mediation fees are billed $300 per hour.