Divorce mediation is quickly emerging as the most preferred Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) method for resolving divorces in New Jersey and around the country. Given that mediation takes place outside of the courtroom, it offers a number of significant advantages over more traditional divorce litigation in terms of speed, expense, privacy, and reduced stress and conflict.
However, for divorce mediation to be successful, one of the most important factors is the neutrality and professionalism of your divorce mediator. Since most divorce mediations involve a single attorney hired not to represent an individual, but to help the couple find fair resolutions, finding an experienced mediator is vital. Contact our skilled Morris County divorce mediation lawyers today.
Morris County Divorce Mediation Lawyers | Serving All of New Jersey
At Townsend, Tomaio, Newmark & Clancy, our firm focuses exclusively on family and divorce law. This specialization allows our lawyers to be well-versed in ADR methods, as well as general negotiation and litigation strategies. In fact, founding partners Laurie L. Newmark and Dominic A. Tomaio are both court-approved mediators, as is our entire Mediation Team.
If you are considering divorce and are interested in the mediation process, call our office today for a free and confidential consultation with our legal team.
The Advantages of Divorce Mediation
Choosing to mediate your divorce rather than pursue aggressive court litigation can benefit you, your partner, and your children. Mediation takes place outside of the courtroom at a pace that works for you. Key advantages include:
- Privacy and Flexibility: You do not have to discuss sensitive family matters in a public court. You decide your issues on your schedule rather than waiting for court dates.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Most couples choose to work only with the mediator rather than retaining separate counsel. Mediation strives for fair solutions rather than pressing for every last dollar, which reduces legal fees.
- Reduced Conflict for Children: Children are perceptive; it is difficult to hide the stress of litigation. Mediation is a more relaxed, communicative process that reduces the emotional toll on the family unit.
For more in-depth information regarding these benefits, please view our page here.
Is Mediation Right for My Divorce?
While mediation offers many benefits, it cannot work in every situation. Generally, a successful mediation requires three core elements:
- Willingness to Cooperate: BOTH spouses must be ready to communicate honestly and compromise in various areas.
- Experienced Mediation Attorney: Your mediator must be neutral and trained. If the mediator appears to take sides, the process can fail. A neutral mediator helps both sides find fair resolutions.
- Patience: While often faster than court, mediation is not overnight. The more complex your finances, the more time is needed for discussion and negotiation.
For more information, you can view our page on the topic here.
Court-Ordered Mediation for Family Law Disputes
In some cases, the family court will order a couple to attempt mediation before involving a judge. This is common during disputes over child custody, out-of-state relocation, or visitation modifications. Even when court-ordered, you are free to choose your own mediation attorney.
Contact our Morris County Divorce Mediation Lawyers Today
At The Law Office of Townsend, Tomaio, Newmark & Clancy, our attorneys have extensive experience acting as neutral mediators across New Jersey. Our three founding partners are NJ Supreme Court Certified Civil Trial Attorneys, a testament to our legal knowledge and ability to understand unique client concerns.
If you are interested in learning more, view our Mediation FAQ page or schedule a free consultation. Contact our Morristown, NJ office at (973) 840-8970 or our Hackensack, NJ office at (201) 285-5985.
