Mediation
Mediation is one method for resolving the issues related to your family law case. Mediation allows the parties to craft a customized solution, through the services of a neutral third party who is trained not only in family law, but also in facilitating communication and helping people create agreements.
The mediation process is governed by the Indiana Rules of Alternative Dispute Resolution, which provide that mediation is a confidential process. During mediation, as it is practiced in our area, the parties are typically in different rooms, and the mediator moves between them, working towards a compromise. If a party is represented by an attorney, the attorney will generally be present during the mediation. Remember, a mediator is neutral and will not be able to provide legal advice to either party.
If the parties are not able to come to an agreement, the mediator does not not have the power to decide an issue for them and will simply report to the court that no agreement was reached. The goal of mediation, however, is to come to an agreement, which will be reduced to writing and signed by the parties on the day of the mediation. A mediated agreement may resolve all outstanding issues related to a matter, and if it does, a court hearing will not be necessary. However, a mediation may also result in the resolution of some, but not all, outstanding issues. If a partial agreement is reached, a hearing may be held to address any remaining issues.
Kara Reagan has been a registered Domestic Relations Mediator since 2005. If you are interested in scheduling a mediation with Kara, please be sure to note that you are interested in mediation services during your initial call to our office.