Using Mediation To Resolve Your Family Law Disputes

Mediation and arbitration are effective methods of alternative dispute resolution that provide a way to resolve issues without the need for a court trial. In fact, many Colorado courts now require parties to engage in these alternative methods before proceeding to a court hearing. These approaches can be particularly beneficial in divorce cases, as they often allow couples to address contentious issues, such as alimony, in a more cooperative and less adversarial setting. By working together through mediation or arbitration, couples can reach mutually agreeable solutions, saving time, money, and reducing the emotional stress often associated with litigation.

Additionally, collaborative law offers another avenue for resolving disputes outside of court, where both parties commit to working together with their attorneys to find amicable solutions. This method encourages open communication and negotiation, making it easier to address complex matters like the division of assets, liabilities, and alimony in a constructive manner. By choosing mediation, arbitration, or collaborative law, you can navigate your divorce with greater flexibility and control, leading to outcomes that are tailored to your family’s unique needs.

At Littman Family Law, mediation and arbitration have become a strong focus of our practice. Our entire team of mediation attorneys have the experience and dedication to help families resolve their issues as amicably as possible. Not only can Whitney and David assist you through mediation, but they are trained mediators who can help you navigate even the most complex legal issues.

Providing Divorce Arbitration And Mediation Services Throughout Denver

With mediation and arbitration, a neutral third party can be used to resolve disputed family law issues, including divorce, child support, and property division. This neutral party is typically a mediation attorney but also can be someone else trained in these alternative dispute methods, including:

• Mediation can be used in divorce or parental responsibilities and parenting time (formerly known as child custody) issues. The role of a mediator is to help people work through their issues and reach an equitable and agreeable solution for both parties. The mediator has no authority to make final decisions for the parties. If agreements are reached, the mediator then prepares a document that contains the agreements made by the parties. The document can be filed with the court and made into a final order, eliminating the need for the parties to litigate further or take their disputes to court.
• Arbitration can be used in a divorce, but it intends to provide parents a tool to resolve post-divorce disputes involving parenting plans, child support, parenting time, and other matters related to children. An arbitrator has the authority under Colorado statutes to make binding decisions that act as a court order. An arbitration session is similar to a court hearing in that parties give testimony, witnesses can be called to testify, and evidence is provided to the arbitrator. Parties can participate in arbitration on their own or have an attorney’s representation.

Providing Parenting Coordinator and Decision-Making Services Post Decree

• Parenting Coordinator: A Parenting Coordinator is appointed by the court to provide guidance to parents and to help them make decisions regarding their children. A parenting coordinator’s role is to facilitate communication, provide advice and interpret the existing court orders. A parenting coordinator does not have the authority to make decisions. The goal is to keep parenting disputes out of court.
• Decision-Maker: Decision-Makers are appointed by the court upon the agreement of the parents. Unlike parenting coordinators, decision-makers interpret the existing parenting plan and are authorized to make binding decisions, which are filed with the court.

Contact the Littman Family Law mediation lawyers in Denver by calling us at 303-832-4200. You may also email us for more information. We promptly reply to all phone and email messages.