Reno Family Law Mediation Lawyer

Surratt Law Practice, PC is a Reno, Nevada family law firm that promotes alternative dispute resolution when possible. A family law matter is one of the most personal and painful events a person can go through in their lifetime. Our firm promotes the settlement of these matters without the use of a court. We can act as a confidential mediator and assist you in avoiding a courtroom.

Surratt Law Practice is committed to serving clients through mediation. For a compassionate family law attorney, we warmly invite you to call 775-636-8200 or reach out online today.

Understanding the Mediation Process

Mediation is a process where the mediator works with people who have legal disputes or potential legal disputes in an attempt to help them resolve their disagreements.

Although the mediators in this office are attorneys, they do not represent the interests of any one party. The mediator remains neutral while communicating the law to both parties regardless of the impact on any one party. The mediator assists the parties in reaching their own fair and mutually acceptable agreement.

Please note that the mediation services are not in any way similar to a process where a report/recommendation is sent to the court. This process is confidential. As an attorney who is trained to be neutral, the mediator does not represent the interests of any one party who participates in a Surratt Law mediation process.

The Reno mediator attorney works with all involved parties in order to help them reach a mutually acceptable agreement which they feel is fair and just, in light of their particular circumstances. The parties themselves, and not a Judge, design the agreement. The mediator will draft the agreement between the parties, giving them the document(s) they need to take to the court to be filed and enforced. Studies show that mediation is significantly less expensive than going to Court.

Advantages of Choosing Mediation

The decision to pursue mediation can offer several benefits over traditional litigation, including:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Mediation is often significantly cheaper than going to trial. Court fees, attorney fees, and expert witness fees can add up quickly during litigation. Mediation generally costs less and can be completed in a shorter time frame.
• Time Efficiency: Court cases can take months or even years to resolve, while mediation sessions are typically scheduled quickly and can resolve disputes in a matter of days or weeks.
• Control Over the Outcome: In litigation, the outcome is determined by a judge or jury. In mediation, both parties retain control over the final resolution. This ensures that both sides are more likely to accept the outcome, leading to higher compliance with the agreement.
• Confidentiality: Unlike court cases, which are part of the public record, mediation is private. The discussions that occur during mediation cannot be used as evidence in court if the matter goes to trial. This allows for more open and honest communication between the parties.
• Preservation of Relationships: Mediation encourages cooperation and problem-solving rather than adversarial tactics. As a result, parties may be able to preserve their relationships and avoid the lasting hostility that often comes with litigation.
• Flexibility: Mediation allows for creative solutions that may not be available in a courtroom. The mediator helps the parties explore various options to resolve the dispute, which can lead to outcomes that are tailored to the unique needs of each party.

Steps Involved in Mediation in Reno

Mediation is a flexible process that can be adapted to a variety of situations. The structure of a typical mediation session involves several key steps:

1. Initial Consultation: Before the mediation begins, the mediator attorney in Reno will meet with the parties to understand the nature of the dispute. This may involve separate meetings (caucuses) with each party to discuss their concerns and gather information.
2. Opening Statements: The mediation session begins with each party being given an opportunity to explain their side of the dispute. The mediator may ask clarifying questions to ensure that both sides fully understand the issues at hand.
3. Negotiation and Discussion: The mediator helps facilitate communication between the parties, encouraging them to discuss their differences and work towards a mutually acceptable solution. The mediator may propose options or offer guidance but does not make decisions for the parties.
4. Resolution: If the parties are able to reach an agreement, the mediator will assist in drafting a written agreement that outlines the terms of the settlement. This agreement is binding and can be enforced by the court if necessary. If an agreement is not reached, the parties may choose to pursue other legal remedies, such as litigation or arbitration.
5. Post-Mediation: After the mediation is complete, the parties will typically leave with a clear resolution or a framework for further negotiation. If the mediation results in an agreement, the parties will often move forward with implementing the terms outlined in the settlement.

Get in Touch with Our Reno Mediation Attorneys

If you have children and you wish to use mediation services for your custody and parenting time arrangements along with property division, then please note that mediation is a process that is in the best interest of your children. In the private confidential mediation process, both parents work together to problem-solve any issues related to their children.

Mediation consults are for one hour and must involve both parties. The mediator will not meet with just one party. If you schedule a meeting with us to discuss mediation, we will discuss all of your divorce options in further detail, including but not limited to mediation, collaborative practice, arbitration and litigation. Specific details regarding your case will not necessarily be discussed at this meeting.

Schedule a free legal consultation with a skilled Reno mediation attorney today. Call us at 775-636-8200 or contact us online to discuss how mediation can help you reach a fair resolution.