Family Mediator in Hamilton County, Indiana

Family law cases can get resolved without the parties ever walking into a courtroom.  That's the ideal situation and mediation is a way to make that happen.

Mediation is a dispute resolution process - most courts require parties participate in mediation before proceeding to trial. Mediation can take place before the divorce is filed (which is often the case when parties are not represented by attorneys) or after the case is filed. The mediator is an unbiased third-party - the mediator does not serve as an attorney nor as a Judge. The mediator works with the parties to help them identify all issues of conflict and find ways to resolve those issues.

If an agreement is reached, a Mediated Agreement is signed by both parties, filed with the Court and the case is over after the Judge has approved the agreement.  

For me to serve as mediator, both parties need to agree or I can be appointed by the Judge.  I charge by the hour and how my fees are paid is decided by the parties before I begin.  You do not have to have attorneys to mediate, but if you have retained an attorney the attorney must be present with you.  

Mediation can be done in person or virtually - whichever is more convenient for the parties.  

How long mediation takes depends on the complexity of the issues.  Some people prefer to schedule a full-day mediation and others a series of shorter one to two-hour mediations.  If the parties do not have attorneys, the shorter sessions are much more effective.