IN MANY JURISDICTIONS, COURTS REQUIRES YOU TO ATTEND MEDIATION PRIOR TO THE FINAL HEARING
Together, Inez and Maggie Grant have over 35 years experience representing clients just like you, in all types of mediations and arbitrations.
MEDIATION FAQs:
What is Alternative Dispute Resolution?
Alternative Dispute Resolution, usually referred to as ADR, offers parties a way to resolve their differences without going to court. Parties are required to attend MEDIATION prior to the final hearing.
What is mediation?
Mediation is a process where a neutral third party, known as the mediator, helps parties to resolve a conflict.
There are many benefits to mediation.
In a trial, there is a winner and a loser. The judge can only go by the evidence presented. However, in Mediation, you are presented with opportunities to negotiate, to discuss, and to be heard, in order to try and reach a settlement.
You are not compelled to reach a settlement in a mediation. If you are not happy with the proposed settlement, then the mediation will end in an IMPASSE (no agreement or settlement can be reached in the mediation) the next step is facing the judge in a final hearing
Benefits of mediation include:
- Promotes communication and cooperation.
- Private and confidential – avoids public disclosure of personal problems and the stress of going to trial.
- May be completed in less time than litigation, saving you time and costly litigation expenses.
- The mediator is not a judge and has no authority to make a decision or force the parties to settle their case.
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- IF you reach an IMPASSE the next step will be a trial.
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- The content of the mediation is confidential and judges are not informed of the reasons for a failed mediation.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, Mediation is an alternative to court in which YOU have more control over the final outcome.
I have to attend a mediation. What now?
When you receive the order, be aware that this is a court order and you are required to obey it. The order outlines all of the steps that you need to take and what you need to bring to your mediation:
(1) Choose your mediator: EQUAL GROUND MEDIATION SERVICES offers you over 35 years experience. We are well-versed and licensed in all types of causes.
(2) Schedule the mediation. You have ten days from the date of the court order to select a mediator and start the scheduling process with *EQUAL GROUND MEDIATION SERVICES. In most cases, you have 120 days from the date of the order to complete the mediation. This deadline is very important to keep in mind.
(3) Prepare for the mediation. The better prepared you are for the mediation, the more likely you are to succeed and settle your case. Outline the points that you would like to make to the opposing party and to the mediator. Gather all of the documents that are relevant for you to represent your side of the case (e.g., tax returns, W-2s, 1099s, business records, and documents related to property values and account balances). In domestic cases (e.g., divorce, legitimation, and modification), you must complete a Domestic Relations Financial Affidavit before the mediation and bring it with you. (If you need help completing the Affidavit, you’re encouraged to seek the advice of a lawyer).
(4) Participate in the mediation. While you aren’t required to settle at the mediation, you are required to attend and participate in good faith. The presence of witnesses is not required. Our policy at EQUAL GROUND MEDIATION SERVICES, and what we have learned is most successful in our mediations, is to limit the witnesses, or not bring any at all. This helps to avoid any conflicts that may arise and disrupt the mediation.
How long does mediation take?
Most mediations last between 2-4 hours.
However, if the issues are complex, the mediation may take more time or require multiple sessions.
THE STATE OF GEORGIA REQUIRES DIVORCING COUPLES TO ATTEND MEDIATION BEFORE REACHING THE TRIAL STAGE OF THEIR DIVORCE
DIVORCE MEDIATION
EQUAL GROUND MEDIATION SERVICES IS LICENSED FAMILY LAW (DIVORCE)
Inez has mediated hundreds of divorces and can help walk you through the entire process. Our goal at EQUAL GROUND MEDIATION SERVICES, is to keep you well-informed and reduce an already stressful situation.
While some cases go to trial, many cases are settled in mediation.
Georgia courts encourage couples to work together to resolve their conflicts with a mediator’s assistance.
Many people think of mediation as an alternative to going to court, and they are correct.
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that couples can use if they choose to go through a private mediator.
Private mediation offers a highly effective, confidential alternative to the anxiety that may arise in a courtroom setting.
*Schedule a FREE 15-minute MEDIATION CONSULTATION with us today:
CALL: 770 297-0620
PARA ESPAÑOL: 770 297-1463