Divorce and custody cases are often settled outside of the courtroom through negotiation or mediation. And often, mediation results in a fair resolution to the case that costs far less than full-blown courtroom litigation. At Collis, Griffor & Hendra, our skilled family law attorneys know how to get our clients a fair deal they can live with, regardless of the method used to reach that resolution. We can assist you in litigation, mediation, arbitration or otherwise. Because for us, it’s all about you. If you are thinking about how alternative dispute resolution can benefit you in your divorce or family law matter, contact an experienced divorce mediator at Collis, Griffor & Hendra to learn how we can help.
Types of Alternative Dispute Resolution
Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) includes dispute resolution processes and techniques that act as a means for disagreeing parties to come to an agreement short of litigation. It is a collective term for the ways that parties can settle disputes, with (or without) the help of a third party. ADR is generally classified into at least five types:
- Negotiation
- Mediation
- Collaborative law
- Arbitration
- Conciliation/coordination
Benefits of Alternative Dispute Resolution
Despite historic resistance to ADR by many popular parties and their advocates, ADR has gained widespread acceptance among both the general public and the legal profession in recent years. The rising popularity of ADR can be explained by the increasing caseload of traditional courts, the proposition that ADR imposes fewer costs than litigation, and the desire of some parties to have greater control over the selection of the individual or individuals who will decide their dispute. Additionally, forms of Alternative Dispute Resolution often help the legal matter to be resolved much more quickly than traditional methods of litigation.
What Should I Know About Mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary process where a divorcing couple uses a neutral and impartial third party to assist them in reaching a mutually acceptable solution to their problem. Mediation should not be confused with arbitration whereby the third party will make a decision or case evaluation and a recommended settlement will be issued. In mediation, the mediator will facilitate a safe environment where not only lawyers but also parties can speak and be heard.
Contact a Washtenaw County Divorce Mediator
There are many benefits to mediation, including being cost-effective, saving time, avoiding litigation, improving communication and allowing you to design a solution that works for you and your family. If you are considering mediation in a custody or divorce matter, contact Collis, Griffor & Hendra today to schedule your consultation. From our office in Ypsilanti, we serve clients throughout Washtenaw County and across southern Michigan.
