Mediation and Divorce

Oftentimes, divorcing spouses will express their desire to “keep things civil” or to “keep [them] out of court.”  If both spouses are desirous of avoiding court, but have not yet reached a mutually acceptable resolution of any claims in their divorce, they may want to consider mediation.

A trained mediator is often (but not necessarily) an attorney.  It is important to remember that the mediator does not represent either party.  Instead, the mediator’s goal is to assist the parties in discussing their desired resolutions and help them reach a mutually agreeable resolution.  Generally, both parties will have to make compromises to reach such a resolution; mediation is not a “my way or the highway” type of adversarial process.

Parties need not be represented by an attorney in the mediation process, but some parties choose to hire their own attorneys in addition to the mediator.  Having your own attorney throughout the mediation process can be beneficial, because your attorney is looking out for your best interests.  Your attorney can review any agreements that you’ve reached, or suggestions that you are considering, in mediation, and help you weigh the pros and cons of each, as well as understand the legal ramifications and potential outcomes in court if you were unable to resolve your divorce claims in mediation.

While the attorneys at Tanner Law Offices are not mediators, we are happy to represent clients who are interested in hiring a mediator.  We can craft your settlement agreement if you are able to settle through mediation.  We are also prepared to assist you in the litigation process if you are unable to settle through the mediation process.

If you are interested in learning more about mediation, contact Tanner Law Offices at (717) 731-8114 to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.