Family Mediation: Knowing When to Compromise

Are you faced with legal issues that can impact other members of your family? Whether you are dealing with an upcoming divorce or dividing a substantial inheritance, it is not uncommon for relatives to face off in court. Family mediation, however, is an affordable alternative that allows you to settle your differences peacefully. Here are three situations when working with a mediator is more effective than traditional litigation.

Separation and Divorce

Couples who choose to separate or divorce often turn to mediation to eliminate stressful court battles and crippling fees. For those who have children, mediators also offer help with parenting plans and custody arrangements. These recommendations are based on a number of personal and financial factors, so be prepared to cooperate if you do not want a judge to decide for you. Furthermore, family mediation gives you the opportunity to express your concerns in a controlled environment, minimizing stress and confrontation. By establishing solid terms for your divorce, you can avoid future disagreements from the start.

Family Businesses and Estates

Although divorce is the most common reason to invest in mediation, matters related to family businesses and estates also require expert guidance and interest-based negotiations. For example, a management dispute between two relatives can influence the productivity of a jointly owned business. Fortunately, a mediator is capable of presenting solutions which benefit the organization as a whole. If you are tackling the division of an estate, family mediation can even be used to address the details of your inheritance.

Geriatric Care and Support

For those who are concerned about reliable care for the elderly, mediation can cover every aspect of legal, financial and medical support. If you are planning to share this responsibility with another family member, a mediator can assist by clarifying the duties of each person. This eliminates any confusion regarding treatment, especially if the individual is no longer capable of functioning on their own.

In the end, family mediation can be used to resolve a variety of complex family related issues, from child support and health care to professional liability and asset distribution. Don’t let your emotions cloud your judgment. Instead, invite your family to work with a mediator before the situation becomes unresolvable. As long as you are willing to be collaborative and respect the rules of mediation, finding common ground does not have to be difficult or expensive.