Working with a
Certified Family Financial Mediator

Mediation is the structured process by which an impartial third party assists parties in a family law conflict find resolution. Since she is not a Judge or an Arbitrator, the final decision-making authority is preserved with the parties. This is important since the parties know the most about their children, their family finances, and their desires moving forward. As Certified Family Financial Mediators, Deb and Theresa use unique communication and negotiation techniques to assist the parties in reaching an agreement without the need of court intervention or continued litigation in front of a Judge, who simply knows very little about the family.

Although not required, the parties can also have their attorneys present at the mediation to ensure that each party is fully advised of their legal rights and any resulting legal implications of an agreement. Additionally, an attorney will be utilized during or after the Mediation to formalize the settlement documents. 

By conducting a Mediation, the parties are able to utilize creative and efficient tools instead of dealing with the high costs of litigation – not only attorney fees, but also the costs of time, stress and emotional turmoil.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Mediation is a key part of resolving family law disputes, especially in cases involving divorce, child custody, and financial matters. It offers a confidential, less adversarial alternative to court, allowing parties to reach agreements with the help of a Mediator.

Mediation is a process used to resolve disputes outside of court with the help of a neutral third party, called a Mediator. A Mediator does not have decision making authority; rather, the Mediator facilitates negotiation, helps identify issues, and guides both sides toward finding a mutually acceptable solution.

Any disputes, of any shape or size, can involve Mediation. Often, Mediation is one of the steps in a litigation process, especially in child custody matters, equitable distribution matters, or civil matters seeking monetary damages.

Mediation can help reduce stress and conflict, save time and legal costs, maintain influence and control in the hands of the parties, instead of a Court or Arbitrator.

The process begins when a Mediator is appointed by the Court or selected by the parties, and possibly their attorneys. On the date of the Mediation, the Mediator will start by going over the rules of Mediation and how the process works. The opposing sides will generally be in the same building, unless the parties are conducting the Mediation virtually. Thereafter, the Mediator will ‘bounce’ between both sides that are generally in separate conference rooms to push and pull either side’s positions with the goal of finding an agreeable middle ground.

If Mediation fails, the parties always have the option to return. However, if the legal matter is on the litigation track, then the Mediator may need to file a report declaring an impasse, and the legal matter put in the rotation to be scheduled for trial.

While not required, having a lawyer is recommended to help you prepare, to give you legal advice during the mediation process, and to draft any proposed agreements. This is particularly important as the Mediator cannot give legal advice nor draft a legal settlement or consent order.

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