Pietragallo partner Carla Schiff Donnelly was trained in mediation years ago and has participated in more than 100 mediations. Mediation is one of the best tools to resolve a family law matter. She recently took a refresher course for mediators to further hone her skills and learn more techniques to help couples navigate their family law issues.

Here are some of the advantages to mediation that Carla has learned:

Lower Cost

Although she recommends that both parties consult lawyers, mediation is far more economical than having the court resolve your issues. As a litigator, she knows how expensive court time can be. Just a simple status conference can cost hours of attorney time for both parties. You need to prepare for the conference, get there early, often wait because the court is running behind, and then travel back to the office. Even if the lawyers participate in the mediation, you are still saving time and money.

Control the Outcome

If you go to court, a stranger will be deciding where your children will live and how much money you will receive. You may win on issues you care less about and lose on what is most important to you.

Better Outcomes

The court will divide your money and children with the equivalent of a meat cleaver. Mediation gives you the opportunity to divide money and time with your children with the precision of a scalpel. Sometimes what works best for you and your family is not what a court will order.

Confidentiality

Mediation is a confidential process. Court is not confidential. Do you want your dirty laundry aired out at the courthouse?

Compliance

If you enter into an agreement voluntarily, you are more likely to adhere to it than you are with court-imposed resolutions. That means your ex is more likely to comply too.

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