Toledo Mediation Attorneys

Helping Families in Northwest Ohio Resolve Disputes

When most people think of divorce, they picture a contentious courtroom battle. However, that is not the reality for most couples. Family law matters can often be resolved through mediation, a process that can save a great deal of time, money, and stress. If you are considering divorce, a post-divorce modification, or any other family law matter, you should speak with an experienced Toledo mediation lawyer. At Smith & Smith, we provide skilled mediation services to individuals and families in Toledo and the surrounding communities. We can help you understand the mediation process and work toward a resolution that is in the best interests of you and your family.

Call 419-842-4629 or online to schedule a consultation with our mediation attorneys in Toledo.

What Is Mediation?

Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that is designed to help individuals and families resolve their legal issues outside of the courtroom. During mediation, the parties work together to reach a mutually agreeable resolution with the help of a neutral third party known as a mediator. The mediator does not make decisions for the parties, but instead helps facilitate the conversation and keep the discussion focused.

Mediation can be used to resolve a wide range of family law matters, including:

• Divorce
• Child custody and visitation
• Child support
• Spousal support
• Property division
• Post-divorce modifications
• Pre- and post-nuptial agreements
• Grandparent visitation

Mediation is generally a more informal process than litigation and is conducted in a neutral location. Unlike a judge, the mediator does not have the power to make decisions for the parties. Instead, the mediator helps facilitate the conversation and keep the discussion focused. The mediator may also help the parties better understand the law and their legal rights and responsibilities. The mediation process is confidential, which means the discussions that take place during mediation cannot be used against the parties in court.

One of the biggest benefits of mediation is that the parties have control over the outcome. When a judge makes a decision, it is final and binding. However, when the parties reach an agreement through mediation, they must both approve of the final settlement. This means that the parties can be more creative and flexible in their solutions. For example, the parties can agree to a visitation schedule that is not based on the standard parenting time guidelines or can agree to a property division arrangement that is not a 50/50 split.

How Does Mediation Work in Ohio?

Mediation is not mandatory in Ohio, but it is encouraged. In some cases, the court may order the parties to attend mediation before proceeding to trial. In other cases, the parties may choose to attend mediation on their own. The cost of mediation is typically split evenly between the parties, although they may agree to a different arrangement.

Mediation typically follows the following process:

• Opening statements: The mediator will start the mediation session by introducing themselves and explaining the purpose and process of mediation. The mediator will also explain the ground rules and how the process is confidential. Each party will then have an opportunity to make an opening statement and explain what they hope to achieve through mediation.
• Joint discussion: The mediator will then ask each party to explain their side of the dispute. The mediator may ask questions to better understand the issues involved and may also ask the parties to clarify certain statements. The mediator will help facilitate conversation and keep the discussion focused.
• Private caucuses: The mediator will then meet privately with each party. The purpose of the caucus is to allow the parties to discuss the issues more freely and to brainstorm potential solutions. The mediator will then meet with the parties together and help them negotiate a resolution.
• Agreement: If the parties are able to reach an agreement, the mediator will help them draft a written agreement that sets forth the terms of the agreement. The parties will then have an opportunity to review the agreement with their attorneys before signing it. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the case will proceed to trial.

Mediation can be a highly effective way to resolve family law matters. However, it is not right for everyone. If there is a history of domestic violence or one party is trying to exert control over the other, mediation may not be appropriate.

What Are the Benefits of Mediation?

There are many benefits to resolving family law matters through mediation. Mediation is generally a much faster and more cost-effective way to resolve a dispute than litigation. There are no strict deadlines or court procedures in mediation, which means the process can be completed much more quickly. The parties also have more control over the process and the outcome, which can make the process less stressful and more amicable.

Mediation is also less adversarial than litigation. In litigation, the parties are often pitted against one another and must present evidence to support their side of the story. This can make the process more contentious and can strain the relationship between the parties. In mediation, the parties work together to find a mutually agreeable resolution. This can help preserve the relationship between the parties, which is especially important when the parties have children together.

Other benefits of mediation include:

• Confidentiality
• Flexibility
• Informality
• Less stress

Why Choose Smith & Smith?

If you are considering attending mediation, it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side. At Smith & Smith, we provide skilled mediation services to individuals and families in Toledo and the surrounding communities. We have a comprehensive understanding of the mediation process and can help you understand your rights and options. We also know how to effectively negotiate with the other side and can help you work toward a resolution that is in your best interests. If you need help resolving a family law matter, you can rely on our mediation attorneys in Toledo.

Schedule a Consultation with Our Mediation Lawyers in Toledo

If you need help resolving a family law matter, Smith & Smith can help. Our Toledo mediation attorneys can help you understand the mediation process and work toward a resolution that is in the best interests of you and your family.

Call 419-842-4629 or online to schedule a consultation with our mediation attorneys in Toledo.