While I work most often as a divorce mediator, I assist some clients using negotiation either with the other party or the other party and their attorney. Negotiation is an option for those whose partner may not want mediation, but who is interested in receiving an agreement or working with their attorney to reach agreement on the issues of their divorce. In a negotiated settlement process, I’m working for the client and with the client to resolve issues for the Separation Agreement outside of court.
If your spouse is represented by legal counsel, I can contact his or her attorney and let them know that you would like to resolve all matters outside of court in a peaceful and respectful manner. While most attorneys are open to this option, I often find that neither party wants to spend a large amount of money waging a battle in court and welcome the chance to resolve the matter. If your spouse is not represented by a divorce lawyer, then I can contact your spouse directly.
In the negotiated settlement process the parties meet together, with attorneys if represented by an attorney, in one of my offices. The parties and attorney or attorneys meet to discuss the issues that will be part of a Separation or Divorce Agreement. In the negotiated settlement process, we will create a parenting plan and decide what documents may be needed in order to make a decision the division of assets, property and debts.
The parties can continue to work together and meet as many times as needed, on their schedule and not the court’s schedule. This saves valuable time and money and leaves the decision-making process in their hands, with the assistance of their attorneys.
If the parties do not reach an agreement, they can still pursue litigation.
At Divorce and Family Mediation Services you can work with me to reach a divorce settlement agreement. Contact my Quincy or Hingham office to schedule a free initial consultation, or call 617-750-9709.