Family court matters such as divorce and custody cases can make you feel like you're losing control. A contested case is the essence of lost control because a total stranger in a black robe will be deciding the outcome of your case and dictating how you parent your children or how your marital estate is divided.

How do you maintain control?

Mediation. In mediation you and the other parent will work with a mediator to reach a voluntary agreement that keeps you in control of the outcome of your case.

Most mediations do not involve both parties sitting across a conference table from one another ready to negotiate like titans of industry. Instead, you will each have your own conference room and the mediator will travel back and forth between the rooms to discuss the issues and exchange offers.

When do we mediate?

Mediation can take place at different times in your case. There is no right or wrong answer.

When everyone involved has the desire to reach an agreement early in the case and has enough information from one another to negotiate fairly, it makes sense to mediate prior to filing an action to attempt to reach a full agreement early on without the need for expensive litigation.

Sometimes, cases do not start out with the intention or desire to settle or the parties are not on equal footing when it comes to knowledge of the matters at hand. After some discovery and litigation when the parties have obtained the knowledge needed they are in a better position to negotiate and settle their case.

Do I need an attorney?

Having an attorney walk you through the process of a your divorce or custody matter is always helpful. As a mediator, we do not represent either of you and cannot give either party any legal advice. So, if you need legal advice before you can reach an agreement with your spouse, we recommend having an attorney prior to mediation.

Will you go to court with us?

When you complete your mediation, you will leave the office with a signed mediation agreement that details the specifics of your mediated agreement.

You will need to hire a lawyer or file on your own to have your agreement approved by the Family Court.

How much does mediation cost?

Mediation is done on a flat fee basis. That means there are no hourly rates or billable hours. You know what you are getting into from the very beginning. Mediation fees are also divided between the parties.

Our mediation fees are $500 for a three hour mediation session. This fee is divided equally between the parties mediating unless otherwise agreed.

Next Step?

Contact our office using this short form or by call us at 864-558-0512 or use the form below to schedule your consultation to discuss the South Carolina family court mediation process and get specific questions answered about your case by a Greenville, SC divorce and family law mediator. During this meeting we can get to know one another better and we can mutually determine if our representation is best for you and your family.