A good divorce settlement offers resolution and is an arrangement you can live with into the future. I encourage my clients to focus on solutions and evaluate whether or not a proposed solution is workable and “livable”. If the answer is, “Yes, but it doesn’t feel fair and I don’t like it,” it’s probably a keeper.

As a mediator I have facilitated many divorce settlements. Although every case and family is unique, there are some common behaviors which show up during divorce negotiations. These common behaviors are most often tied to each party’s position or beliefs about how property should be divided, how financial support should be determined and how parenting time should be allocated and these beliefs become the basis of how the parties negotiate – each trying to convince the other that his/her position or belief is the most “fair” or most “reasonable.” Ironically both parties often present seemingly fair and reasonable arguments. Unfortunately, in the context of divorce mediation, neither will likely be effective in convincing the other to agree based on his/her definition of “fair” and “reasonable.”

Remember that the concept of what is “fair” is subjective and varies greatly from person to person. If you are seeking fairness, vindication or punitive outcomes the court cannot deliver. A therapist can help you work through feelings of unfairness, betrayal and rejection – a judge cannot. A mediated divorce settlement is rarely based entirely on the law and rarely feels fair to either party but it does provide resolution and resolution brings healing. The settlement will seem more and more reasonable and maybe even “fair” as time passes.

Written by: Amber M. Serwat, MA

Amber is a divorce and parenting specialist in private practice in Burnsville, MN. She is also a divorced parent and step-parent of three children, ages 16-12.

amber@amsmediationplus.com | 952.252.1492

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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