Family Mediation Attorneys Serving Milwaukee, Waukesha And Southeast Wisconsin

Not all family law matters are contentious. Many times, a marriage has come to a place where both people understand that it’s just not going to work. Sometimes, unmarried couples need a parenting time agreement drafted. In these instances, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) may be the best option. Mediation is one form of ADR that many families have found efficient and effective.

Are you interested in learning more about family mediation? Call our mediation-trained and experienced attorneys at D'Angelo & Grabow, LLP in Waukesha. We can help you and your family overcome any disputes and reach a comprehensive agreement on the terms of your divorce or family law issues.

Navigating Wisconsin Divorces: Mediation, Arbitration And ADR

Wisconsin divorces, while difficult, do not always require a courtroom battle. Alternative dispute resolution in Wisconsin offers methods to resolve disputes outside of court, often saving time and money while reducing stress. These methods allow couples to maintain more control over the outcome of their divorce. The two main ADR methods are:

• Mediation: A neutral family law mediator helps the couple negotiate a settlement. The mediator does not make decisions but facilitates communication and helps find common ground.
• Arbitration: A neutral third party hears arguments and evidence from both sides and then makes a binding or nonbinding decision.

ADR is a valuable tool in divorce cases. It provides a path toward resolution that prioritizes collaboration and compromise. Exploring these options can lead to a more amicable and efficient divorce process.

Top Four Advantages Of Mediation

For many families who can come to an agreement on the big issues, mediation can work well. Most people find mediation to be:

• Private
• Cost-effective
• Efficient
• Less stressful than going to court

Ultimately, Milwaukee family law mediation allows you to work with your significant other or spouse to craft creative solutions and avoid litigation.

Changes In Wisconsin Law

In 2018, Wisconsin law altered the role of the mediator. In the past, mediators could not draft your final agreement. Today, mediators have the power to prepare agreements and finalize the details of the divorce or family law matter. This makes Wisconsin family law mediation faster, more effective and more private than courtroom proceedings.

Who Should Use Mediation?

If you and your family member are generally in agreement as to the terms of your divorce or family law matter, or are motivated to avoid litigation and have peaceful divorce solutions, mediation may be the right way to proceed.

As mediation lawyers, we help clients understand their legal options. Here are some issues we can handle:

• Separation agreement
• Divorce
• Paternity agreement
• Child custody, placement, parenting time and support arrangements
• Post-agreement adjustments to child custody, child support or spousal support

As family law mediators, we work with hundreds of couples and families, all of whom have different and sometimes unique issues. Our clients are sometimes nonmarried couples, same-sex couples, grandparents, or other guardians who have family law matters.

When Mediation Is Not The Right Choice

Mediation is helpful to some families, but not all. Mediation may not work for situations where there is mistrust or a history of violence, abuse or drug use. These instances may require traditional litigation. Our attorneys will consult with you on our family dispute to determine whether mediation may work given your family’s situation.

What If Mediation Doesn’t Work?

When families cannot resolve their issues in mediation, they may need to schedule their case for a contested hearing/trial. If negotiations break down and you do end up going to trial, the judge will know only that the mediation failed. He or she will not have access to the details of your mediation.

Contact Us To Address Your Mediation Questions Today

Not sure if Waukesha family law mediation is right for you? Call our office and ask for a free 30-minute consultation. A lawyer experienced in mediation will walk you through the mediation process and answer your questions. Should you decide to work with us, we will be there every step of the way to guide and advise you. Email us or call 262-383-2700. Serving Waukesha, Milwaukee and clients throughout southeastern Wisconsin.