Top 5 Things to Know About Divorce Mediation in Arizona
Mediation is an often productive and recommended alternative to a trial that can save both parties valuable time, stress, and money. Mediation can resolve your matter without the uncertainty that comes with leaving your future up to a judge. It keeps you in control of your future.
1) Mediation is all about resolution.
Mediation is an out-of-court event where both parties speak with a neutral person (usually a lawyer or former judge) who aims to help the parties reach agreements. The goal is to find an agreement that resolves all issues and prevents further litigation.
2) Mediation saves time and stress.
Mediation allows parties to save time and stress in their matter by offering the chance to reach agreements. Unlike a trial where a judge that may have only met you hours before will make all the rulings, parties at mediation control the outcome and need only reach an agreement if it makes sense for their situation.
3) Mediation agreements are binding.
Agreements made at mediation are valid and binding if they are either stated in writing and signed by the parties (or their attorney) or stated on the record in an audio recording with both parties vocalizing they are in agreement with the stated terms.
4) You don’t need to hire an attorney for mediation.
Mediation can be attended with or without an attorney. But an attorney can advocate on your behalf and ensure any agreements you reach at mediation are in your best interest. The team at State 48 Law are resolution focused and have extensive experience representing clients at mediation and reaching agreements that keep them and their family safe.
5) You do not need to reach full agreements.
While the vast majority of cases that go to mediation reach full settlement, parties are not obligated to reach agreements at mediation if they do not believe it is in their best interest. If some agreements can be reached, parties can confirm those agreements through a binding agreement and narrow down the issues that need to be resolved through settlement or through a final trial.