Mediation and Trial Are Different
If you are headed for child custody mediation, it is helpful to know the differences between trial and mediation. In a trial, the judge decides the issues before them based on the evidence presented and Oklahoma law.
Mediation is different. A mediator is a neutral third party who works with both sides to reach a settlement on the issue. Each has its costs and benefits. You should know the pros and cons of each and how to prepare.
Preparing for Child Custody Mediation
Getting ready for child custody mediation involves preparing your case in much the same way as you would for trial. You must know all the issues involved on both sides and all the evidence that supports and refutes those issues. You must be ready to address all the issues clearly and concisely. Every case has strengths and weaknesses. You should know the strengths and weaknesses of your case and those of your ex’s case.
A mediator will use a case’s strengths and weaknesses to help the parties come to a resolution. This has distinct implications for both sides. It is important that you know what you want out of the situation, what you are willing to compromise on, and what issues are a dealbreaker for you.
An experienced mediator will not divulge anything to the other side that you do not want to be divulged, but the mediator will use this information to help bring both sides closer to an agreement. A mediator will never force an agreement. The parties decide on what issues they will resolve and how.
Why child custody mediation?
Some courts require that parties attend mediation before gearing up for trial. Trials can be much longer and more expensive than mediation. Trials are also riskier. You are allowing a judge to decide issues that have very personal implications for your life.
Mediation allows you to remain more in control of the process, and it is much less expensive. You and your Wagoner family law attorney can talk about the costs and benefits of both. You want to have a clear understanding of how much mediation will cost you and how to make the best use of that time.
Knowing Your Bottom Line is Important
Knowing what you can and cannot compromise on is a fundamental part of mediation, and it is important to know where those lines are. Otherwise, you will have a very difficult time coming to a settlement that you can live with. Discuss this fully with your Wagoner attorney before the mediation.
You can have your child custody attorney present at the mediation, and this often helps the whole process go more smoothly and efficiently. Your attorney is experienced in handling mediations, and it’s important to have a skilled child custody attorney on your side.
Knowing what to expect and knowing your case are important. So is knowing what you want and what you are willing to let go of. Talk to an experienced child custody attorney in Wagoner before you begin preparing for a child custody mediation. It can make a world of difference in the outcome.
Initial Strategy Session with a Wagoner Child Custody Attorney
Wirth Law Office – Wagoner offers its clients the best possible child custody mediation representation in the Wagoner, Oklahoma area at reasonable rates. Get the help you need.
We invite you to schedule a initial consultation to discuss what we can do for you. Contact Wirth Law Office – Wagoner at (918) 485-0335 to schedule your low-cost strategy session. You can also fill out the form at the top of the page.
