Why is ADR Encouraged?

Conflict Resolution image depicting the words "conflict" and "mediation" on a glass board. Person with red marker has crossed out "conflict" and is underling mediation.

Alternative dispute resolution can save financial and emotional costs. Not only is litigation expensive and time-consuming, but it can be very stressful. You may feel that an important part of your life is on hold while you are waiting for a trial date, wondering and worrying about the outcome. If you have to deal with…

Read More

What is Alternative Dispute Resolution?

Image of an incomplete arbitration agreement on a wooden desk with lawyerly things, a pen, a stamp, reading glasses, a law book and a gavel.

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…

Read More

What are the Benefits of Mediation?

Stock Photography image of man in gray suit doing the thumbs up gesture.

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…

Read More

What is Mediation?

Image of dominos in a single row, split by a man's hand. The left side of the row is protected from the right, which is teetering over, representing how mediation can help protect what remains from being lost.

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…

Read More

About Your Family Law Mediation

Cropped image of the bottom of a referree's face and top of his shoulders holding a whistle to his mouth

WHAT IS MEDIATION? 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…

Read More