Words from the trenches of a litigated custody issue…these clients worked diligently in mediation and reached what appeared to be a complete settlement; unfortunately, emotions took over and the allure of the court and desire for a better outcome made final agreement impossible. In this case, mother and father were unmarried and had a long-term relationship which included jointly raising their two young boys in one home. These are the real stories which fuel my passion for helping keep parents out of court whenever possible…

Hi Amber,

I hope all is well with you. I wanted to let you know how this all turned out just for your information on how the court is dealing with these situations – at least in this case.

I was awarded sole physical custody and we have joint legal custody. The judge kept the parenting schedule the same (Tuesday and Fridays without overnights and every other weekend from Friday night until Sunday at 6pm). In addition, they awarded me both tax deductions since they recognize that I had been and would continue to pay the majority of the boys’ expenses. The holiday schedule also stayed the same as we had come up with in mediation.

So basically everything we agreed to in mediation stayed the same except for the physical custody label and the tax deduction.  In addition I incurred thousands in legal fees that could have paid for a year or more of college education.

Had we just stuck with the agreement we had in place with you things would have been much simpler and a lot less stress.  I hope you can use this story somehow to keep someone from headed down the court route and just sticking with mediation.

Unfortunately it takes two. Thanks again for your work that provided much of the framework for this case. Obviously the judge agreed with your assessment of the boys’ ages and needs.

Have a great day.

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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