Mediation And Collaborative Divorce

Divorce does not have to be acrimonious. When spouses retain a sense of mutual respect, mediation and collaborative law offer alternatives to traditional litigation.

At the Law Offices of Sheara F. Friend, we understand how to use these methods effectively to save our clients both time and money. As a boutique firm with a focus on families, we encourage couples to take control of their futures and find compromises that work.

What Is Divorce Mediation?

Mediation is a nonbinding process that couples can use to resolve troublesome issues for themselves. Mediation offers a safe, private environment for couples to talk out a settlement of their own choosing, rather than having a settlement imposed on them by the court.

Attorney Friend is an experienced mediator and has acted both as a mediator to couples and negotiated mediated agreements while representing one party.

What Is Collaborative Law?

Collaborative law is designed to address all issues that might arise in a divorce, from complicated financial matters and division of assets, to custody and support. There are a specific set of rules and ‘fail-safes’ to discourage the parties from pursuing litigation. This approach is particularly effective when a divorcing couple wishes to spare their families, especially any children, from the pain and stress of a litigated divorce.

Both parties must be represented by attorneys trained in collaborative law. In addition, both parties and their attorneys agree to operate in good faith, negotiate fairly and freely disclose all important information. The parties and attorneys must sign an agreement requiring the parties to engage new attorneys if the collaborative process breaks down and they pursue litigation. The collaborative process also typically involves other experts, like a divorce coach or financial planners.

Talk To Us About Mediation Or Collaborative Divorce Today

As a small firm, we value our personal relationship with each of our clients. We have the knowledge and experience to guide you through mediation or collaboration. We are also genuinely interested in helping our clients restore balance to their lives and find a positive solution to their problems.

Please call us at 978-464-1071 to schedule a confidential appointment. We serve clients throughout Middlesex, Norfolk, Essex, Suffolk, Plymouth, Worcester, Bristol and Barnstable counties.