In Missouri, family law cases such as divorce, child custody, and child support disputes can be complex and emotionally charged. Mediation is often used to help parties reach a resolution without going through the stress and expense of a court trial. A mediator is a neutral third party who assists parties in conflict in communicating with each other, identifying issues, and working toward finding a satisfactory solution for everyone involved.
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a process where a neutral third party, called a mediator, helps resolve conflicts without going to court. Mediation is voluntary and confidential, and the parties control the outcome. Mediation is often used in family law cases to resolve issues such as child custody, child support, and property division. Mediation can be a more efficient and less costly way to resolve disputes than going through a court trial.
The Role of a Mediator in Missouri Family Law Cases
The role of a mediator in Missouri family law cases is to help parties in conflict communicate with each other, identify issues, and work toward finding a solution that is satisfactory to everyone involved. Mediators do not make decisions for the parties but rather facilitate communication and assist the parties in reaching an agreement. The mediator’s role is to be neutral and impartial. They do not take sides, and they do not advocate for either party. The mediator’s goal is to help the parties find common ground and reach a fair and reasonable agreement. The mediator is trained to facilitate communication and help the parties focus on the issues.
How Does A Mediation Session Work?
- Before the mediation session, the mediator will meet with both parties separately to discuss the process and answer any questions.
- During the mediation session, the mediator will meet and guide both parties through the process.
- The mediator will encourage both parties to listen to each other and express their concerns and needs.
- The mediator will help the parties identify the issues and work toward finding a solution.
- The mediator will not make decisions for the parties but will offer suggestions and options for resolving the issues.
- The mediator will help the parties develop a plan that satisfies both parties.
7 Benefits of Mediation in Missouri Family Law Cases
Mediation offers several advantages in Missouri family law cases. Mediation is a voluntary process that allows the parties to help control the outcome. Some benefits of medication include:
- The parties can work together to find fair and reasonable solutions rather than having a judge make decisions for them.
- It is confidential. The parties can speak openly and honestly without fear of their statements being used against them in court.
- It allows the parties to be more forthcoming and to explore more creative solutions.
- It is often a less expensive and less time-consuming process than going through a court trial.
- It can often be completed in hours or days rather than months or years.
- It can help reduce the emotional stress of going through a court trial.
- It is often less adversarial and less confrontational than going to court.
Mediation can be an effective way to resolve family law disputes in Missouri. The role of a mediator in Missouri family law cases is to help parties in conflict communicate with each other, identify issues, and work toward finding a solution that is satisfactory to everyone involved. Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process that allows the parties to control the outcome. Mediation is often less expensive and less time-consuming than going through a court trial. It can help reduce the emotional stress of the process. If you are involved in a family law dispute in Missouri, consider the benefits of mediation and the role of a mediator in helping you find a fair and reasonable resolution.
How To Find A Mediator In Missouri
- The statewide MARCH mediation program offers free mediation for many family law matters (not dissolution).
- All judicial circuits are authorized to establish a mediation program for custody and parent access disputes (Supreme Court Rule 88.03). Many circuits have established a local rule requiring mediation. Check with the circuit clerk in the county where your case is pending or will be filed.
- Mediators also may be hired privately.
- Check the credentials and experience of any mediator before making a decision.
Hire An Experienced Family Law Attorney
The attorneys at the Lecour Family Law can help you navigate complex and stressful family legal matters, including divorce, child custody, and child support. Contact us online or call (636) 685-0440 to schedule a consultation. We pride ourselves on offering family legal services tailored to your specific needs.
Lecour Family Law is located at 1270 Jungermann Road in St. Peters, Missouri. We serve clients throughout St. Charles, O’Fallon, Troy, Warrenton, and St. Louis as well as the surrounding areas.