Family Law FAQs
Divorce is not only stressful, but it can be traumatic as well. Many people who are going through divorce feel like their life has been shattered or turned upside down. According to the Holmes and Rahe Social Readjustment Rating Scale (SRRS), divorce is the second most stressful life event an individual may experience, preceded only by the death of a spouse. As family law attorneys, we understand that the effects of divorce can be devastating…
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It is becoming very common for our clients to ask about alternative dispute resolution (ADR). In fact, in many judicial districts in North Carolina, the district court has adopted rules for mandated ADR in family law cases. The goal of the Administrative Office of the Courts is to have statewide mandatory custody mediation and mandatory ADR for the resolution of financial issues related to separation and divorce. Even after you file a lawsuit, statistics show…
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Mediators can increase the likelihood of a negotiated settlement by bringing the skills, creativity, and influence of trained, impartial third parties to bear on the problem. Perhaps more importantly, frequently mediation can save time and money. Mediation keeps your options open, and reduces issues of conflict. Although most people who begin mediation have a successful conclusion, some do not. If mediation doesn’t work, you can still sue, and go to court or engage in arbitration.…
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Mediation is a process in which two or more people involved in a dispute come together voluntarily to try to develop a solution to their problem with the help of a neutral third person (or persons), called the mediator. Unlike a judge or an arbitrator, the mediator does not take sides or make decisions. The mediator, usually trained in conflict resolution, is there to help the disputants evaluate their goals and options in order to…
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Unfortunately, client’s commonly believe that an opponent’s suggestions should routinely be rejected because they are either bad ideas, or they reflect some ulterior motive. Some clients want to automatically do the opposite of whatever is requested. A request, suggestion or offer from the other side is not always bad. Most attorney’s are not out to “get, trick, or ruin” opposing counsel or their clients. Also, remember your spouse is most likely paying just as much…
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