The Law Office Of Juliette Gaffney Dame

Call For Compassionate Assistance

513-599-8979
The Law Office Of Juliette Gaffney Dame
513-599-8979

Find A Path Forward That Respects Your Needs And Values

Lebanon, Ohio, Mediation Preparation Guide

A positive outcome is a priority for all parties, generally when attending mediation. But, in order to reach a resolution that everyone benefits from, collaboration and legal representation are needed. At The Law Office of Juliette Gaffney Dame, I have provided compassionate counsel to couples in the Warren, Butler and Hamilton counties for more than 15 years. This experience has allowed my firm to support countless Ohio spouses as they seek to minimize the potential conflict and expenses that accompany the typical divorce.

Mediation can also deal with post-decree issues that may have come up since the divorce was finalized. Not parenting the same way often leads to divorce and you will not often parent the same after the divorce, which can lead to common disagreements. Mediation can help you resolve issues while not forcing you to parent the same.

What Issues Are Commonly Resolved Through Mediation?

Mediation is utilized to find solutions to many common family law matters. But the most common issues couples seek help from a mediator for often relate to:

If both spouses believe that common ground is attainable, mediation is often the best route to take. With help from an accomplished and local mediator, couples can resolve matters without unnecessarily wasting their time or money.

What Should Spouses Bring To Their First Mediation Session?

Being prepared for the initial mediation session can alleviate a spouse’s worries and make them feel confident going into the meeting. Prior to the meeting, Ohio spouses may want to collect the following documents to ensure they are ready for mediation:

  • Income statements
  • Tax statements
  • Credit card statements
  • Retirement account information
  • Property deeds
  • Vehicle titles

With the appropriate documents and files, spouses should have minimal concerns about what the mediation process will entail. Individuals involved in a divorce may also want to consult with their attorney before mediation begins.

Who Will Be Present At Each Mediation Session?

Mediation is designed to limit conflict and provide couples with an opportunity to work things out privately. Because of this, the number of people allowed to attend a session is limited. Generally, only each spouse and the neutral, third-party mediator will be present at each mediation meeting. However, if both spouses agree, they can also have their respective attorneys attend the sessions.

How Many Sessions Should Spouses Expect To Attend?

While the number of mediation meetings varies depending on the circumstances, spouses can expect to attend at least one to three sessions before both parties reach an agreement. In situations where complex assets, such as a business, or contentious custody disputes are present, divorcing spouses may need to attend five or more sessions.

What Happens When An Agreement Is Reached?

If the mediation process ends with both spouses reaching an agreement, the agreement will be reduced to writing a “Memorandum of Understanding,” which is then sent to their attorneys to be turned into a court order for filing. It is not enforceable until it is filed with the court and should be reviewed with their respective attorney if there are any legal questions. If I do the mediation, I am acting as a neutral and not an advocate for either side and, therefore, will not be providing legal advice to either party.

Helping Clients Navigate The Mediation Process With Confidence

Mediation is a viable alternative for couples to resolve their differences without court involvement. Ohio residents who want to maintain control over the outcome of their family law disputes can contact my firm Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 513-599-8979 or after hours by scheduling a consultation through email.