The Law Office Of Michael A. Troy PLLC

Mediation

Maryland and Washington, D.C. Lawyer Advises on Family Law Mediation

Firm helps clients reach divorce and custody settlements outside of court

Divorces and custody disputes can be emotionally and financially draining. Going to court can add to the expense and aggravation. This is why many people turn to a qualified mediator to help them reach consensus during a family law conflict. At The Law Office of Michael A. Troy PLLC, we offer personalized guidance to Maryland and Washington, D.C. clients considering the mediation process and provide effective support if you decide this method of alternative dispute resolution is right for you.

Why mediation might be the best option to resolve your divorce terms

When you decide to divorce, you might think that there’s no possible room for compromise with your spouse. However, key issues such as child custody, property division, alimony and child support must be resolved, and there’s no reason to assume that a drawn-out litigation process will give you a better outcome than negotiating under the guidance of a skillful mediator. As an experienced family lawyer, Michael A. Troy can examine the circumstances in your case and offer honest counsel about whether mediation is a good option for you.

Advantages and disadvantages of mediation

There are several reasons why numerous Maryland and Washington, D.C. residents choose mediation to resolve their family law matter, including:

  • Cost — Going to trial often requires many hours of discovery, motion practice and preparation even before you go to court. Through mediation, you can cut down on attorney’s fees required to complete divorce at a time when you might already be experiencing financial pressure.
  • Time — Litigation is run on the court’s schedule. This means that you likely will wait months, and possibly more than a year, for a trial date before you can get on with the next chapter in your life.
  • Privacy — Instead of hashing out private matters in a public courtroom, mediation allows the spouses and their attorneys to discuss sensitive issues in a meeting room before a qualified mediator.
  • Control — In court, no matter how strong your case is, you can never be sure that you’ll receive a favorable decision. Nothing is determined through mediation until both parties agree.

While mediation often is the best solution for divorcing couples, there are instances where the process is not likely to result in a settlement. Some spouses are so far apart that even the guidance of a skillful mediator cannot bridge the gap. Divorces where domestic violence has been alleged by one or both parties might also be better suited to litigation.

The attorney’s role in mediation

As in the courtroom, having the right attorney by your side is critical in family law mediation. Proposed terms might sound acceptable during a negotiation, especially when the mediator seems to be pushing the parties to reach a settlement. However, you and your children are the ones who must live with the result. Prior to a mediation session, Michael A. Troy can help you prepare for the potential consequences of terms that might be suggested by the mediator. Remember that you have control of the mediation process and could request that both parties be represented by counsel during the discussions.

Speak with a Maryland and Washington, D.C. attorney regarding family law mediation

The Law Office of Michael A. Troy PLLC in Greenbelt represents Maryland and Washington, D.C. clients in divorce mediation and other types of family law proceedings. To make an appointment for a free initial consultation, please call 202-864-2296 or contact us online.