Is mediation for me?  Mediation misconceptions abound.  Read on to see those myths demystified.

1.  “Mediation is only for couples who really want to get back together.”

Mediation and marriage counseling are NOT the same.  While mediation can improve communication, the intended outcome is not reconciliation.

Mediation is for people who want to get through the divorce process efficiently and get on with their lives.  It helps individuals remain in control of their lives and make decisions based on their unique needs (and those of their children), not on being half of a couple.

2.  “My spouse intimidates me.  I need a lawyer to protect my best interests.  Won’t a mediator take my spouse’s side?”

You are the best person to protect yourself.  You know your needs and interests better than anyone else.  A mediator is a facilitator skilled at empowering self-determination and providing an effective process and environment for settlement.

The objective of divorce mediation is to increase both parties’ understanding and knowledge of individual needs and interests.  Mediation allows you to address issues and creates a communication pathway.  This is very important especially if there are children involved.

3.  “My spouse and I aren’t even speaking with each other.  There is no way mediation will work for us.”

The truth is that most people going through a divorce have communication problems.  The complexity of problems will vary.  A divorce mediator is a qualified professional who helps ensure your communication and negotiations stay on track without getting derailed by emotions.

4.  “Couples who have ‘real’ problems cannot mediate.”

In reality if you didn’t have ‘real’ problems you wouldn’t need a divorce mediator.  You would resolve your issues independently.  As an impartial third party, your divorce mediator works with you and your spouse to reframe your problems and generate workable solutions that are customized for your unique situation.

5.  “Our attorneys are urging us to settle.  We don’t need a mediator.”

This is a common misnomer.  It is important to understand that attorneys are advocates for their client’s needs, wants and legal rights.  An advocate is not a facilitator.  Settlement meetings that include two advocates lacks the most common component of settlement – a neutral facilitator to manage the process, maintain a respectful and productive environment and reframe issues for better understanding.  In most cases, adding a mediator to settlement discussions actually saves money because the process is streamlined when managed by a neutral.

Adapted from an article at DivorceMagazine.com (2003)

A MESSAGE FROM AMS, LLC - RE: COVID-19

The safety of clients, ourselves, and colleagues is our top priority while we remain available to assist you as you navigate the new and uncharted territory caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

 

Offering All Services Virtually

While providing virtual ADR services was not part of our plan, we have made the necessary accommodations to ensure we can continue to serve our clients during these unsettling times. All services are currently available through virtually. We are using Zoom for videoconferencing. We suggest that you download this app to your phone or the program to your computer at https://zoom.us/download.

 

Limited In-Person Services

We have resumed limited in-person services for sessions with 1 or 2 participants scheduled for a maximum of 2 hours. Masks are required in our building and in session. Availability is subject to change based on local regulations and CDC guidelines.

 

Office Hours

Our office hours remain the same and we remain available by phone and email. The main office number is 952.252.1492. Gabe can be reached via email at gabe@amsmediationplus.com.

 

New Clients Welcome

We offer free 1-hour divorce consultations via Zoom. Potential PC and PTE clients are invited to schedule a free 15-minute phone call. Please call 952.252.1492 to set up an appointment. We are here to help!

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we all continue to adapt to these rapidly changing and chaotic times. Stay strong, stay resilient, and stay healthy!

 

Sincerely,
Amber Serwat & Gabe Frye
ADR Professional & ADR Assistant

Divorce Mediation & Dispute Resolution Services - Amber Serwat Mediation

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