Why is Mediation the Smart Path to Resolution?
Published in Clearwater Beach Neighborhood News
By Jake Hornstein & Greg Hill, Our Children Have Rights .Org (OCHR)
Mediation is an increasingly popular method when resolving child custody disputes. When cases involve domestic violence, child abuse, or child neglect, mediation is generally not appropriate. Absent those circumstances, mediation is widely used when resolving disputes for unmarried or divorcing parents navigating child custody. At OCHR, we focus on better educating and equipping parents to make informed decisions, while avoiding major mistakes. Here are some reasons why mediation, instead of litigation, is the smart path to resolution.
Less Expensive: One of the most expensive aspects of any legal proceeding is spent on attorneys going to court and preparing for court. Obtaining a chunk of undivided court time can be difficult. Cases are frequently prolonged for further proceedings. More court visits equal more money spent on fees. In mediation, the cost of one mediator is generally shared, usually on a flat fee basis.
Approximate Total Cost of Mediation: $500.00 - $2,500.00.
Approximate Total Cost of Litigation: $32,700.00+.
Quicker Resolution: In some cases, mediation can be resolved in 1-2 days! Litigation can take months, even years, depending on the issues at hand, and the usually jammed packed court calendar.
Collaborative & Cooperation: Defining the process with this mindset can be helpful as it may allow both parties to be more receptive to listening and considering each other’s opinions. Litigation is contentious and puts people on the defensive. Mediation helps refocus on the issues and remove hostility.
Education & Enlightenment: Mediation helps educate both sides on the issues the other finds important. Mediation helps bring the conversation to the forefront, making this the focus to help move things forward. Mediation can be utilized for the entirety of the dissolution matter. Or it can be a great option for narrowing the issues while creating a parenting plan that works for both sides.
We’re fortunate to have relationships with reputable certified mediators that we trust referring parents to. In Florida, we recommend Clearwater-based Jill St. Louis, founder of Successful Solution. To learn more about Jill, or to schedule a free consultation, visit www.successfulsolution.com.
OCHR is a Pinellas based nonprofit that helps parents more seamlessly navigate their child custody and co-parenting journeys, at no cost to the family. We were recently recognized with the AMPLIFY Clearwater “Community Spirit Award". Support of our mission is vital, and we kindly ask our community to consider a financial contribution to our mission.
Most importantly, if you, or someone you know, needs our assistance, we’re here for you. We’re on a mission… A mission to protect the rights of children to have access to both responsible parents by providing education, resources, and support services for successful co-parenting. Why? Because Our Children Have Rights.
Contact Jake at JakeHornstein@OurChildrenHaveRights.com or www.OCHR.Org
To donate: www.ourchildrenhaverights.org/donate.