Dear Attorneys,
When I was divorced, our Divorce Agreement indicated that if we had disputes about the parenting plan, we would have to meet with a mediator to try to address the issue(s) before returning to court. My friend had a similar agreement where they needed to meet with a co-parenting counselor. My ex-husband and I are currently disagreeing about which school system to enroll our children in. I contacted a co-parenting counselor and my ex said he won’t use the person because they are not a mediator. After doing some research, it appears that various attorneys handle mediation. Is this the same thing?
Sincerely,
Mediating Megan
Dear Megan,
Many (but not all) attorneys are also certified mediators. Often, an attorney will list mediation as a practice area under the family/matrimonial law category. That type of mediation is generally to work as a neutral third party (aka mediator) for two parties going through a divorce or custody matter. However, what you are describing is what we call “ad hoc mediation.” This type of mediation is exactly what it sounds like-we are available if two parties have a dispute. There is no formal mediation process, but when one of the parties contacts us (as we do have to be retained by both), then we will set up a mediation session (either in person or via Zoom) and we will work as a neutral third party with them on that specific issue to help them reach an agreement. Sometimes parties will use us once and never again, and other times, people use us a few times a year. We simply keep their matter open until they tell us that they no longer need our services.
Wolf & Shore Law Group is here to help you make your family law matters easier, not harder. We are realistic and direct with our clients. We encourage potential clients to seek out a firm where they will feel comfortable and confident. Ever argue with a woman? Let Wolf & Shore Law Group go to work for you. Call us at 203.745.3151 or email us at info@wolfandshorelaw.com.
Very Truly Yours,
Wolf & Shore Law Group
*The situations represented in our Dear Attorneys column are entirely fictional and any resemblance to a specific case is unintentional. We cannot, and will not, offer legal advice to anyone who is not a client. However, if you do have questions or concerns, you should contact an attorney at your convenience.
