Whether it’s a paternity action, divorce, or modification, family law disputes are known for their conflicting nature. Spurred by heavy emotional experiences, these disputes can easily transform the adversarial process into a fierce battle with both sides reluctant to move an inch. However, utilizing mediation services to find common ground between you and your spouse, partner, or co-parent can be an effective way to improve the outcome of your case.

Mediation, as defined by Missouri Court Rules, is the “process by which a neutral mediator appointed by the court assists the parties in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement as to contested issues in domestic relations.” 

Although it may seem counterintuitive, mediation has proven to be very successful in providing parties in a family law case with more satisfaction in the outcome of their agreements. While your lawyer may know more about specific legal procedures and how to advocate for your desires on your behalf, nobody knows the best way to divide your property, determine your child’s visitation time, or solidify your shared expenses like you and your former partner. Therefore, the opportunity to sit down together with an experienced neutral party and discuss how your interests should be divided often leads to far more preferable outcomes than simply leaving it for the Judge to decide.

  Fortunately, Missouri law provides parties in family law disputes ample opportunity to pursue mediation services. In cases involving child custody, support, or visitation many Missouri courts even require participation in mediation concerning the central issues. While most mediations require the parties to pay a fee to the mediator, there are several non-profit organizations, like M.A.R.C.H. Mediation, that provide no-cost mediation services to qualifying low-income families especially if the dispute involves children. However, if mediation is not required by your local jurisdiction, Missouri Supreme Court Rule 88.04(a) permits a Judge to order mediation services in relation to any contested issue.

Mediation can be an extremely powerful tool that puts both sides of family law disputes on an equal playing field to discuss and agree on how their personal property should be divided. If you are interested in pursuing family law mediation or would like to participate in mediation as part of your family law case talk to an attorney at The Binder Firm today!