Sumter Mediation Lawyer

Sumter Mediation Attorney

Mediation is an increasingly popular method used to resolve pressing family law matters. The process can help encourage amicable decision-making and be much less expensive than traditional litigation. A Sumter mediation lawyer has the knowledge and experience to help guide clients through this process and find a solution that meets all of their needs.

At Kinney Law Firm, we understand how challenging family law disputes can be. It’s why we prioritize finding ways to reduce stress and contention during the process, such as choosing mediation rather than going to court. If you are facing the possibility of a trial but are hoping to resolve your dispute outside of court, contact us today to learn more about your options.

What Is Mediation?

Mediation is a confidential alternative resolution method where a neutral third party, called the mediator, steps into an office setting and helps facilitate conversations. This differs from traditional litigation, as meditation encourages more collaboration and communication. In mediation, the two parties can reach an agreement on their own rather than presenting their case and waiting to hear how a judge and jury rule.

In Sumter, SC, the mediation process follows a similar structure, the mediator does not make their own decisions or impose certain solutions to be adopted. Rather, they help facilitate dialogue between both parties to help them better understand each other’s perspectives and explore the compromises that can be made. Many find that this experience empowers them to take control of their own case, which can lead to more satisfactory and sustainable outcomes.

Mediation can be applied to many different cases under the family law umbrella. This makes it an extremely versatile tool for conflict resolution. Some of the most common cases it’s used for are divorce, child custody, and spousal support issues. It can also be used to help remedy disputes in the business world or amongst community members.

What Are the Advantages of Mediation?

There are many compelling reasons to choose mediation rather than taking your family law disputes to court. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Avoiding Litigation. While litigation in South Carolina court can take an incredibly long time, mediation can significantly shorten a family law case. Having this alternative space to address your issues and negotiate with the other party puts the timeline in your own hands, allowing you to discuss as much as you want until you reach a mutual agreement.
• Cost-Effective. Mediation is often referred to as one of the most cost-effective methods to reduce your family law expenses. This is because the method was designed specifically to reduce legal fees generated throughout the litigation process. Mediation offers a more informal opportunity to reach a resolution, with fewer legal hoops and procedures that can drive up costs.
• Confidentiality. The discussions that happen in a mediation session stay between those involved. The final decision also remains private, which is not true in a public court setting. Having this level of confidentiality is a very attractive feature for many who do not want their personal matters addressed in the public sphere.
• Extra Flexibility and Control. Mediation grants participants more control over the process and the result. All final decisions made must be agreed upon by both parties. This is the opposite of what happens in court, where the final decision rests with a judge and jury. Final decisions made in mediation are also not binding. This provides flexibility, and participants may go to court if they’re unable to come to an agreement.
• Preservation of Relationships. Because mediation encourages cooperative problem-solving, it has the power to help preserve important relationships between family members and friends. This is especially important in family law cases where ongoing interactions will be inevitable, such as in a co-parenting scenario. Reaching an amicable agreement in mediation can help encourage a peaceful relationship after the disputes are resolved.

FAQs

How Do You Win a Mediation Case?

Winning a mediation case means that both parties are able to come to a mutually agreed-upon solution. Preparation can help boost your chances of reaching an agreement. Take the necessary time to understand your goals and the facts of the case. Also, try to anticipate the desires of the opposite party. Listen to their concerns and see what middle ground exists to find a compromise. Discuss your strategy ahead of time with a family law attorney.

Is Mediation Useful in a Family Law Case?

Mediation can be an extremely useful alternative to litigation in a family law case. It offers a less contentious platform to approach conflict resolution in which both parties can have power over the outcome of the case. It also can promote better communication and understanding, as the environment encourages collaboration rather than traditional attacks that happen in the courtroom. Many also find the confidentiality aspect to be an attractive quality.

What Is the Mediation Process in South Carolina?

The mediation process in South Carolina typically begins with both parties agreeing to participate and selecting a mutually agreed-upon mediator. This mediator will facilitate the first meeting, where all of the rules and expectations of the process are outlined. This will help guide the discussions to encourage open communication and collaboration. Private sessions are also allowed if someone wants a moment to discuss their concerns directly with the mediator.

Is Mediation Required in SC Family Law Cases?

All family court are required to submit to mediation unless otherwise exempt. This is especially true with family law disputes like divorce and child custody, where negotiation between two spouses could encourage more self-sufficient decision-making and keep the courts free from straightforward cases. The court may also mandate mediation for other types of civil disputes to help promote a more streamlined legal process.

Contact Kinney Law Firm Today

While family law disputes can be complicated, mediation offers a path to reach a more amicable solution more quickly. At Kinney Law Firm, we can help you find an easy, peaceful, and affordable legal solution. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help in your time of need.