Can Mediation Benefit Your Case? Creative Solutions To Family Law Problems.
Mediation is a process whereby a neutral third person, trained in dispute resolution techniques, guides couples in divorce by listening, identifying issues, exploring options and helping the parties reach a mutually agreeable solution. Mediation can keep legal costs reasonable and reduce emotional conflicts. As a nonadversarial alternative to litigation, it can also facilitate the development of creative solutions that take into account the needs of both parties and their children.
Ani M. Garikian is a trained mediator with experience resolving issues arising from divorce, including child custody, parenting time, property division and support. As a mediator, Ms. Garikian is client-focused, working hard to reach real solutions in a responsive and cost-effective manner. She also advises and acts as a consulting attorney for clients who are engaged in mediation with other mediators.
The Mediation Process
Unlike traditional divorce litigation, the parties do not have to conform to the court’s schedule when they choose mediation. Resolving the outstanding issues in a divorce through mediation can be accomplished in one session, or it may take multiple sessions conducted over several weeks or months. While mediation is by nature a cooperative process, it can be successfully utilized in situations where the parties do not get along as long as they are willing to participate in the process.
When serving as your mediator, Ms.Garikian will gather key facts about your marriage, your children and your financial situation. She will work closely on the concerns of each party, attempting to identify possible solutions that recognize and reconcile the needs of each person. If there are special issues that need to be addressed, Ms. Garikian can call in one or more consultants who can provide guidance, such as an accountant or child psychologist.
After an agreement on all outstanding issues has been reached, the parties will each have an opportunity to discuss it with independent counsel. Ms. Garikian will then draft a stipulated judgment, to be entered by the court.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law Mediation
How can mediation help resolve family law disputes?
Mediation gives both sides a safe, private place to talk through issues with a trained neutral. We guide discussions so parties focus on solutions instead of repeated arguments. Mediation lets people keep control of decisions, often saves time, and can reduce legal costs and emotional strain. When parents reach agreements outside of court, children usually experience less stress. If an agreement is reached, we turn it into a written settlement the court can approve.
What types of family law issues can be resolved through mediation?
Mediation can address many family matters, such as divorce terms, child custody and visitation, child and spousal support, property division and premarital or postnuptial agreements. It also works for post-judgment modifications when circumstances change. Mediation may not be appropriate if there is ongoing abuse, coercion or threats; in those cases, court processes or other protections may be safer.
What happens if we can’t agree on all issues during family law mediation?
If parties reach some but not all agreements, mediation still helps. Any issues resolved stay in the settlement. For unresolved items, parties can choose more mediation sessions, private negotiations or bring those issues to court.
Contact A Glendale And Pasadena Alternative Dispute Resolution Attorney
To learn more about the mediation process, contact the Law Offices of Ani M. Garikian at 818-290-8527.