If a family law issue can potentially be settled without involving the court, mediation is often an effective alternative. Mediation is less expensive than a trial, and it usually results in an amicable outcome that satisfies both parties. This is because it facilitates communication and compromise. Having an experienced Manning mediation lawyer is essential for a successful mediation. A qualified Manning family lawyer can also serve as a mediator.
Kinney Law Firm understands the challenges that arise when a family law dispute occurs. Our experience in mediating has equipped us with effective skills, which we can use to benefit our clients. This process encourages communication and collaboration among parties. We have helped countless families settle matters of family law, such as property division, child support, spousal support, parenting time, and other issues.
There are many advantages to mediation. The cost is one of the primary benefits, as mediation can be significantly cheaper than a courtroom trial because it requires less time and fees overall. Other advantages of mediation are described below:
Mediation not only offers all the advantages listed above but, when you hire a mediation lawyer who is well-versed in Manning mediation laws, you also get their knowledge and experience to guide you.
One study showed that of participating families, two-thirds to three-fourths of parents who completed mediation reached an agreement regarding issues like visitation, custody, and child support. The same source reports that mediated agreements often result in higher satisfaction for the parent and a better understanding of the parenting plan overall.
Mediation in South Carolina begins with a third-party mediator who remains neutral throughout the mediation process. The mediator promotes dialogue between the two parties and offers suggestions when conflict arises. The mediator does not make any decisions or impose anything on the parties. They merely guide the conversation toward an agreement by helping them see the other’s perspective.
A successful mediation ends in an outcome that is decidedly better than a judge’s ruling. When mediation is unsuccessful, which is rare, the case will need to go to trial at the Clarendon County Family Court.
At Kinney Law Firm, we know firsthand that every family is different. Your family’s experiences and background make it unique from any other case we have represented or mediated. This understanding allows us to approach every case with care and personalization, as we get to know our clients and cater our services to their specific legal needs. We offer a level of customer service that is unmatched in other Manning family law firms.
A: The downside of mediation in family law is that it is not always successful. Because there is no judge ruling over the dispute, there can be a lack of evidence and no formal court order for that evidence to be considered in the mediation. Since there are no formal rules for mediation, it can fail if one of the parties is especially emotional or aggressive. A good mediator can keep parties on task when this occurs.
A: It is not required by law to take a lawyer to mediation. However, it can be to your advantage because a personal lawyer who has your interests in mind can offer sound legal advice specifically to you throughout the mediation period. A mediator cannot give legal advice. When you have your own lawyer accompany you to mediation, they can advocate for you when necessary and protect your rights.
A: When you are participating in mediation, you should always be mindful of your words and manners. Be respectful when you speak. Never say rude, disrespectful, or hurtful things to your spouse. Never make threatening remarks. You will get better results with respect and kindness. There is also no need to place blame or bring up the past. Remember, the point of mediation is to come to an agreement and be done with the matter.
A: A judge can deny a mediation agreement if they find that it does not align with the law. Another common reason a mediation agreement can get rejected by a judge is that a child’s best interest is not protected. Most reputable mediators will guide the mediation, so it generally does not include such unacceptable terms. In fact, they have an obligation to make sure any agreements made are not illegitimate.
When you’re ready to talk to a Manning mediation lawyer, we hope you call Kinney Law Firm. Our compassion for helping families can facilitate a mediation that meets the needs of your family. At the same time, our experience can provide you with the tools and resources necessary to carry out a fair and successful mediation. If you have questions about mediation, we are happy to answer them. Contact us easily online to discuss the details of your family law case.