Atlanta Mediation Attorney
Divorce, contract disputes, and other contentious legal litigation can be stressful, time consuming, and expensive. One alternative option that is growing in popularity, especially in family law cases, is the use of mediation to resolve differences and come up with legal solutions where everyone walks away satisfied. The Solomon Firm provides a full range of Atlanta mediation services for clients and help you solve your unique legal issues.
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that uses a neutral third party, called the mediator, to negotiate a solution for your legal dispute. Mediation sessions are not binding unless all parties agree, and unlike arbitration, the neutral third party does not make the final decision on the issue. The mediator is usually a lawyer that is well versed in the legal issues in dispute and does not represent either side. Mediation can be voluntary, court ordered, or contractually obligated before taking the legal issues to trial.
The Process of Mediation
Mediation begins with both sides coming together to discuss their perspectives on the issue at hand. Both sides are encouraged to bring their own attorneys, as the mediator is a neutral third party and will not represent either side during the dispute. Mediation typically takes place outside of the courtroom, usually in an office or neighborhood center dedicated to alternative dispute resolution.
Once both sides finish explaining their perspective and goals for the mediation, each side goes into their own room and the mediator’s job begins. The mediator will speak with one side about potential negotiation terms and then will relay that information to the other side in the other room. The mediator may suggest unique solutions or compromises during the negotiation and help draft the final decision. The mediator may also help frame the issues, interpret concerns, relay information, and define the problems in the dispute. The mediator will continue to go back and forth between the rooms until a final decision is agreed upon or the mediation breaks down.
If a solution can be reached, the mediator can help create the final agreement that will be submitted to the court for consideration. If the mediation breaks down because an agreement cannot be reached or one side decides to no longer participate in the process, the legal issues will go to trial as though the mediation never took place. All negotiations and discussions are considered confidential, and nothing revealed or discussed during the mediation can be used in court. The mediator cannot be called as a witness for either side, and a judge or jury will decide the final outcome of the case.
Are You In Need of Mediation?
The Solomon Firm is here to help with mediation services. Call the office or contact us today at The Solomon Firm for all of your mediation needs in the Atlanta area. I provide caring and compassionate mediation services to my clients and help devise creative solutions to your unique legal issues.
