Mediation Services
Neutral Family Mediation Services in Greater Montgomery County
Family law mediation is a voluntary, confidential legal process in which a neutral professional helps families or couples resolve disputes outside a courtroom. A mediator offers an alternative to litigation and can facilitate productive communication and keep discussions civil, focused, and harmonious. Mediation helps you avoid court appearances, which can save time and reduce stress. It is also often faster, less expensive, and more personalized. At Cohen & Hertz, P.C., attorney Leslie G. Peters is trained in civil and family law mediation. She provides family mediation services in Greater Montgomery County, and offers co-mediation services with Doug Cohn.
What Is Family Law Mediation & When Is It Needed?
While some family law matters end up in court, most can benefit from mediation. Mediation is highly beneficial to divorcing couples and families in conflict who do not want the cost, time commitment, or stress of a trial. Attorney Peters can help both parties reach agreement on key issues, clear up misunderstandings, and explore solutions without the mess and anguish of drawn-out legal proceedings. While she does not have the authority to make final decisions, issue court orders or decrees, or impose financial penalties, she can defuse emotional tension, offer expert guidance, and assist the parties in creating a mutually beneficial agreement.
Benefits of Mediation in Family Law
Many family law matters end up contentious. Issues related to property, finances, assets, businesses, and child custody can quickly become incredibly emotional. When the court system is backed up, waiting for a hearing or trial date can compound stress and lead to more bickering and discord. When children are involved, the process can be particularly difficult. A mediator can streamline discussions and offer solutions outside of court, saving you time and money. Some of the biggest benefits of family law mediation vs traditional courtroom litigation are:
- Significant cost reductions, potentially saving you thousands of dollars
- Accelerated timelines without a months- or years-long wait for open court dates
- Guaranteed privacy and confidentiality, with no worry of information ending up in the public record
- More flexible, personalized outcomes that are not necessarily bound by the rigid legal formulas used by judges
- The possibility of preserving a more harmonious relationship between family members
What to Expect From the Family Mediation Process
A family mediator can help couples and spouses reach agreement on divorce matters such as asset and property division, debt allocation, spousal support, prenuptial agreements, and parenting plans. The mediation process typically progresses through five phases:
- Orientation – The mediator will meet with both parties to outline ground rules and timelines, confirm the process is voluntary, and have you sign a mediation agreement.
- Information – Both parties will gather necessary documentation, like financial statements, tax records, child-related expenses, etc.
- Interests – The mediator will help you identify your core goals and the primary issues that are preventing you from coming to an agreement.
- Negotiation – Both parties will brainstorm solutions under the guidance of the mediator to consider potential compromises.
- Settlement – When an agreement is reached, the mediator will draft a formal settlement agreement, which both parties will sign. This will be submitted to a judge and incorporated into the final divorce decree.
Why Choose Us as Your Family Mediation Law Firm
Cohen & Hertz, P.C. is a boutique law firm offering comprehensive family law services. We provide compassionate guidance and personalized one-on-one support to spouses, partners, and families who want to settle domestic disputes outside of court. Because our firm also has extensive experience in complex, high-stakes litigation, your alternative dispute resolution process will remain grounded, efficient, and legally sound. Our attorney, Leslie G. Peters, has dual civil and family law mediation training and offers co-mediation alongside specialist Doug Cohn. This approach can defuse arguments and resolve conflicts more quickly.
Schedule a Consultation With a Divorce Mediation Attorney
Our goal is to create an environment where each party can speak openly and honestly. Court cases are part of the public record, and the results can impact your life. Mediation is fair, neutral, and completely confidential. You can express your views and address underlying issues without fear that your position will become public. If you’re interested in learning more, call us now or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a divorce mediation lawyer in Greater Montgomery County.
Answers to FAQs About Family Law Mediation & Divorce Mediators
Maryland circuit court judges typically order parents to attend mediation before a custody case proceeds to trial, except in cases involving domestic violence or child abuse. D.C. courts often schedule initial mandatory mediation sessions to free up space on the court’s docket.
Your mediator can draft a partial settlement agreement, and you can litigate the remaining issue or issues before a judge.
The process is highly personalized and depends on many factors. In general, divorce mediations may take two to five sessions, or a few weeks to a couple of months. Parenting plans could take longer if they are complex or if parties can’t agree on multiple material issues.
No. Your mediator is a neutral third party and cannot give legal advice or advocate for one party over another. They cannot tell you if a deal is good or bad. They can answer questions, clarify options, explain laws, and help you resolve disputes.
No, this would be a conflict of interest.