Reaching A Settlement In Your Divorce With A Certified Florida Mediator
Sometimes, divorcing couples agree on all of the terms of their divorce. Other times, a divorce is contentious and couples can’t agree. Mediation is an alternative method for resolving disputes that helps couples work together toward a settlement. Even if divorcing couples can’t agree to the terms of their divorce on their own, the mediation process can help them reach agreements.
Our divorce lawyer and Florida mediator, Timothy S. Keough, has dedicated his legal career and law firm to family law. At the Law Office of Timothy S. Keough, P.A., in Tavares, he represents his clients’ best interests in mediation. However, he is also a certified mediator himself and has helped families through the hardest issues of divorce by employing his problem-solving and negotiation skills to facilitate settlements and avoid litigation.
Why Mediation May Be Right For You
Even if spouses cannot agree on every aspect of their divorce, the mediation process gives them the opportunity to discuss their disagreements in a neutral setting, with the help of a mediator. A mediator is a third party who doesn’t take sides in a divorce but instead helps both sides find common ground.
Mediation allows the parties to stay in control of their own divorce, rather than having a judge make all the decisions. If you are looking for a method of divorce that will allow you and your spouse to quickly move on to the next chapter of your lives in a calmer and less adversarial manner, then mediation may be right for you. Mr. Keough’s skills as a certified mediator grant him the ability to keep tensions to a minimum while also guiding both parties to their best possible outcomes.
Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions About Mediation
If you are considering mediation in your divorce, you probably have a lot of questions. Mr. Keough has more than 34 years of family law experience. Over the years, he is frequently asked the same questions. Here, we have compiled answers to some of the questions he is most commonly asked. For answers to questions about your specific case, he is available by appointment for a confidential, initial consultation.
What are some of the benefits of settling a case through mediation?
Mediation offers several advantages when resolving family law cases. These include:
- Privacy: Mediation is a more private and confidential process compared to going to court. This means that sensitive personal and financial information remains out of the public eye.
- Cost: Mediation is often less expensive than litigation, which can help reduce the financial burden of your case.
- Collaborative: Mediation also tends to be less adversarial, which can lead to a more amicable resolution and a better co-parenting relationship, if applicable.
- Control: Mediation allows you to have more control over the outcome of your case, as you and your partner work together to find mutually acceptable solutions. This can lead to more creative and tailored agreements that meet your unique needs and circumstances.
Overall, mediation can be a more efficient, cost-effective and empowering way to resolve your family law case.
Why should I attempt mediation?
We recommend attempting mediation for several reasons. First, mediation can help you avoid the uncertainty and unpredictability of a trial. When you go to court, a judge makes decisions for you, which may not align with your goals or priorities. In contrast, mediation allows you to take an active role in shaping the outcome of your case.
Mediation also tends to be less stressful and emotionally draining than litigation. This can be beneficial for everyone involved, especially children. Moreover, mediation can help you preserve relationships and maintain a sense of dignity and respect, even in the midst of a difficult family law case. By attempting mediation, you can take the first step toward finding a resolution that works for you and your family.
How much does it cost to mediate a case?
The cost of mediation varies depending on several factors, including:
- The complexity of your case
- The number of mediation sessions required
- The mediator’s fees
Generally, mediation is less expensive than litigation, as it eliminates the need for costly court proceedings and attorney fees associated with trial preparation. In our experience, mediation can save you thousands of dollars compared to going to court. While the cost of mediation is an important consideration, it is essential to weigh it against the potential benefits of a faster, more private and more cost-effective resolution.
What happens if we can’t reach an agreement?
Sometimes, couples are unable to reach an agreement through mediation. If your case is not resolved in mediation, you may need to proceed to litigation. However, this doesn’t mean that mediation was a failure. In many cases, mediation can help narrow the issues in dispute, making it easier to resolve your case through litigation or further negotiation.
Additionally, the information exchanged during mediation can be useful in preparing for trial. We will help you assess the progress made during mediation and develop a strategy for moving forward. Sometimes, that involves further negotiation, litigation or a combination of both. Our goal is to help you find a resolution that works for you, even if mediation is not the ultimate solution.
Consult A Certified Mediator
If you still have questions about your specific situation, our certified mediator is available by appointment. To schedule a confidential initial consultation, you can call our office at 352-508-1446 or send us a message through our website. We look forward to answering your questions and telling you more about how mediation can work for you.