Let Us Guide You Through Mediation in Your CO Family Law Case
In Colorado, the law says that couples trying to resolve issues related to child custody, property division, and spousal maintenance must participate in mediation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR) before they can go to trial. The goal is to assist couples in coming to mutual resolutions on these issues to avoid an expensive and lengthy court battle.
At The Law Office of Andrew Bryant, we value mediation as a way to streamline and soften the family law process for our clients, minimizing friction between you and your former partner.
Colorado Springs Family Lawyer Andrew Bryant Details the Benefits of Mediation
Why are you and your former partner better served by resolving your issues in mediation rather than through litigation? We have already touched on a few of these benefits, but mediation offers several advantages over traditional litigation in family law cases. Let us dive into them in additional detail here.
Mediation promotes collaboration. First and foremost, mediation encourages cooperation and communication between parties, fostering a collaborative atmosphere conducive to reaching agreements. Mediation encourages dialogue and compromise, unlike litigation, which often pits parties against each other.
This is good for everyone involved. If you and your former partner can communicate without feeling like a battle, it is easier to resolve any outstanding issues. It is also better to hopefully come to an agreement together instead of having a judge make significant decisions about your life after only an hour or two in court.
Puts you in control. Mediation empowers parties to retain control over the outcome of their dispute. Rather than having a judge impose a decision upon them, parties participating in mediation can craft their solutions based on their unique needs and circumstances. This can lead to more creative and flexible agreements that better meet the interests of all involved.
Faster and cheaper. As mentioned above, mediation is often more cost-effective and efficient than litigation. By avoiding lengthy court proceedings and associated legal fees, parties can save time and money. Furthermore, mediation typically results in faster resolution of disputes, allowing parties to move forward with their lives more quickly.
A Family Law Firm That Understands the Process of Mediation in Colorado
Remember, Colorado courts often require couples to undergo mediation or ADR before any contested hearing. Mediation is the first step if you are involved in any kind of family law case, including any of the abovementioned issues.
A mediator is a neutral third party who does not work for either of you. In Colorado, parties participate in what is called shuttle mediation. Whether mediation is in person or virtually, the parties are not in the same room together. The mediator will go back and forth between the rooms in an attempt to resolve all, or even just some, of the issues at hand.
There is no requirement that an agreement is reached, just that the parties mediate in good father. If an agreement is reached, the mediator will assist you in documenting the terms of the agreement in a written settlement agreement. This agreement is then submitted to the court for approval, at which point it becomes legally binding.
Mediation Is a Necessary Part of the Family Law Process in Colorado Springs
Mediation is a valuable tool for resolving family law disputes. Moreover, it is a necessary tool because it is required by law.
By promoting cooperation, communication, and mutual agreement, mediation empowers parties to take control of their destinies and find solutions that best meet their needs. It allows parties to avoid the adversarial nature of litigation and work together toward a more amicable resolution.
You must approach mediation in good faith and sincerely try to reach an agreement. Refusal to mediate or engage constructively may have consequences in subsequent court proceedings.
Want to learn more about the family law process in Colorado Springs? Set up a free consultation today to see if we are the right fit for your needs.
