Arbitration

Oceanside Family Law Mediator

In family law, legal problems may be resolved in a number of ways. Recognizing the expense, uncertainty, and time entailed in traditional litigation, courts in recent years have mandated or encouraged alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation and arbitration.

At Palmer Rodak & Associates, we have extensive experience in obtaining positive results for our clients using these techniques in family law matters. One of the principals of our firm, attorney Matthew E. Palmer, serves as Pro Tem Mediator for Family Court Services in court-ordered mediation proceedings, as a private mediator, and represents clients in mediation proceedings.

Advantages of Mediation

The process of mediation encourages the parties in a family law dispute to solve their problem through a guided discussion which uncovers areas of mutual agreement. Where the parties do disagree, the mediator attempts to develop a consensus and agreement which is satisfactory to both parties. Unlike the adversarial process which dwells on the wrongs of the past, mediation focuses the attention of the parties on the future.

The advantages of mediation over litigation include:

• Less confrontational and emotional than litigation
• Encourages workable solutions
• Less costly and time-consuming
• Allows the parties to control the situation, rather than being at the mercy of a judge
• Provides a more predictable outcome than a trial
• Private mediation provides more privacy regarding financial records

Throughout the mediation process, each party retains the right to go to litigation if the process breaks down.

Mediation is especially useful in the development of parenting plans. Children see their parents coming to an agreement without a nasty court fight. As a result, they experience less emotional trauma and uncertainty, and more easily adapt to the new reality of their lives. Often, the Court will accept a mediated parenting plan as the permanent order, without the parents having to come to court.

Divorce mediation or child custody mediation are not appropriate for every situation. At Palmer Rodak & Associates, our lawyers can advise you as to whether mediation is right for you. If it is, we will work on your behalf to obtain a mediated settlement which is satisfactory and practical.

For a free consultation with an Oceanside family law mediator at Palmer Rodak & Associates, call (760) 529-0461, or contact us online.

The Divorce and Family Lawyers People Trust

Serving clients in Southern California and San Diego County, including Oceanside, Carlsbad, San Diego, Vista, Fallbrook, Escondido, Del Mar, San Marcos, Encinitas, La Jolla, Bonsall, and Camp Pendleton Marine Base.