Colorado Mediation Lawyers
Mediation FAQs
What is mediation?
It is an alternative to formal divorce litigation. An objective third party works with the separating couple to work out arrangements like child custody, distribution of assets, spousal support, and so forth in a more interactive, communicative, and private environment.
Will I still need a divorce lawyer?
In most cases, each spouse will consult a divorce attorney, but you will likely not need as much direct counsel as you would if you went through formal litigation. Your Colorado divorce attorney can draft documents for you and provide guidance. The mediator – the one who facilitates the arrangement – will not represent either you or your spouse in the divorce, because he or she gets paid to be an objective third party broker.
Will I have to go to court?
To file for divorce, you will need to go to court. But if you and your spouse can reach a resolution on questions of custody, property distribution, parenting arrangements, and so forth -- and the court finds that your settlement is acceptable -- you will likely spend far less time in court than you would if you went through a more formal litigation process.
How successful is mediation versus divorce?
Statistics suggest that mediation in Colorado can be a very successful strategy. For instance, mediated agreements tend to be more robust and respected than agreements that a third party (such as a judge) lays out. This make sense, intuitively, since both parties must agree to the arrangement – a judge's orders, on the other hand, may feel more "one sided" to either (or both) parties.
Where can I find credentialed mediator?
The Academy of Family Mediators can provide a list of credentialed mediators in your local region. You can also speak with your divorce attorney for advice and suggestions.
Is mediation expensive?
Mediation is definitely not cheap. But studies suggest that mediation can be significantly cheaper than litigation. Although a mediator's time can cost $250 an hour or more, depending on circumstances, this cost can be split between the parties, and it can end up being substantially cheaper than concomitant attorney fees.
Is mediation a good idea if I have children?
According to many independent analyses, yes. Mediation offers a private forum for spouses to air their grievances and hammer out arrangements. The process is business-like but less adversarial and anxiety-producing than typical litigation. And statistics suggest that the arrangements worked out tend to "stick" better than arrangements worked out through litigation. Again, this makes sense because both parties must agree to what gets worked out – whereas, in more formal litigation, one party can "win" over the other.
What if I have more questions about the mediation alternative?
Browse this website or contact the Denver family law attorneys at Kaplan Law. Email or call to schedule a free and confidential consultation with the firm about your mediation and divorce questions.
