Mediation

Resolve Family Law Disputes Through Mediation

Not every family law matter needs to be decided by a judge. Mediation provides a respectful, cost-effective way to resolve divorce, child custody, parenting time, child support, spousal maintenance, and other family law issues while allowing you and the other party to remain in control of the outcome.

In most family law cases, a judge will order that the parties attend Mediation or some other form of alternative dispute resolution before going to court.

At Frago & Lasswell, P.A., our attorneys have more than 60 years of combined experience helping clients resolve family law disputes. Whether you need legal representation during Mediation or an experienced neutral to serve as your mediator, we provide knowledgeable guidance tailored to your needs. Mediation gives families the opportunity to reach practical solutions while reducing the conflict, expense, and uncertainty associated with litigation.

What Is Mediation?

Mediation is a voluntary process in which both parties work with a neutral third party, called a mediator, to resolve disputed family law issues. Unlike a judge, the mediator does not make decisions or provide legal advice. Instead, the mediator facilitates productive discussions, helps identify areas of agreement, and encourages the parties to explore mutually acceptable solutions.

In some cases, an evaluative mediator may also provide feedback about the strengths and weaknesses of each party’s position and discuss how a court might view certain issues. This information often helps parties make informed decisions and reach agreements more efficiently.

What Issues Can Be Resolved Through Mediation?

Mediation can be used to resolve many family law matters, including:

  • Divorce
  • Child custody and parenting time
  • Child support
  • Spousal maintenance
  • Division of marital property, assets, and debts
  • Post-decree modifications and other family law disputes

Even if every issue cannot be resolved, Mediation often narrows the areas of disagreement and reduces the amount of time spent in court.

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What Are the Benefits of Mediation?

Many families choose Mediation because it provides an opportunity to resolve disputes through cooperation rather than conflict. Benefits of Mediation may include:

  • Greater control over important decisions instead of leaving them to a judge.
  • A private and confidential process.
  • Reduced time and expense compared to contested litigation.
  • Open communication that encourages productive problem-solving.
  • A process that can help preserve relationships, particularly when children are involved.

While Mediation is effective for many families, it may not be appropriate in every situation. Our attorneys will help you determine whether Mediation is the best approach for your circumstances and advise you throughout the process.

Experienced Representation and Mediation Services

At Frago & Lasswell, P.A., our attorneys understand the Mediation process from multiple perspectives. Depending on your needs, they can represent you during Mediation by providing legal advice, preparing you for negotiations, reviewing settlement proposals, and protecting your interests. They can also serve as neutral mediators, helping parties communicate effectively, explore solutions, and work toward mutually acceptable agreements.

Whether you need legal representation during Mediation or a qualified mediator to facilitate discussions, our attorneys are committed to helping you resolve family law disputes as efficiently and respectfully as possible.

Learn Whether Mediation Is Right for You

Choosing how to resolve a family law dispute can have a lasting impact on your future. The attorneys at Frago & Lasswell, P.A., can explain your options, protect your interests, and help you determine whether Mediation is appropriate for your case.

To schedule a consultation, call 507-663-7998 or contact us online.

Frequently Asked Questions

A mediator is a neutral third party who facilitates discussions between the parties and helps them work toward mutually acceptable agreements. The mediator does not make decisions or provide legal advice.

You are not required to have an attorney in Mediation. An attorney can explain your legal rights, help you evaluate settlement proposals, and make sure any agreement protects your interests before you sign it.

Mediation can address divorce, child custody, parenting time, child support, spousal maintenance, property division, and many other family law issues.

Mediation is a confidential process, allowing the parties to discuss settlement options openly without those discussions without those discussions being used in court.

Many judges require or strongly encourage alternative dispute resolution before proceeding to trial. An attorney can explain the procedures used in various counties.