Many couples choose alternatives to court for their divorce, like mediation, arbitration, and collaborative divorce. At Twyford Law Office, our experienced Seattle Mediation and Dispute Resolution attorneys use these methods to resolve issues quickly and cost-effectively, reducing stress and saving money. Contact us at (206) 590-7085 for expert guidance, your initial consultation is free!
Our attorneys have over 33 years of combined using alternative dispute resolution for our divorce clients. We have years of experience representing clients in cases involving Seattle child custody, child support, Seattle divorce, property division, and more.
Our legal team has the knowledge needed to assess your case and advise you of potential court outcomes versus remaining in mediation or another alternative dispute resolution method. Contact our law office in Seattle, Spokane, or our Bellevue law office and learn how Twyford Law Office can help your case.
Should you choose to attend mediation without the assistance of counsel, have an independent legal advisor from Twyford Law Office on hand to discuss any issues before and during the mediation process. This helps to ensure the following:
Any mediation agreement is presented to the judge for signature at an uncontested hearing at which you and your spouse must appear. It is imperative your attorney review any mediation agreement before this hearing.
If the Judge does not find the agreement fair and reasonable, they can deny your request to obtain the divorce. At Twyford Law Office, we ensure your mediation agreement meets your understandings and expectations and that the Judge will approve it at your hearing.
Mediation is a private process using the help of a neutral third party to reach agreements together with your spouse. There are different styles of mediation, but the goal of all mediation is to reach mutually acceptable agreements that work for both spouses.
Anything that can be disputed in divorce can be addressed in mediation. This includes, but is not limited to:
Mediation can take several two-hour sessions to complete. The number of sessions depends on a couple’s specific situation and needs. The role of the court is limited to approving any agreements and declaring the divorce.
Lawyers are recommended to assist with legal issues, formalizing any agreements and streamlining the court process. However, they do not attend mediation. Mediators are not allowed to give legal advice.
Mediation and collaborative divorce are different dispute resolution processes. Both are agreed to by the couple, and both can achieve excellent results. However, the professional support is much different.
In collaborative divorce, there is no neutral third party. Instead, each spouse has a collaborative attorney. This attorney is responsible for that spouse and co-facilitates the negotiations, often with an additional financial specialist and divorce coach.
Everyone works as a team to resolve the couple’s issues in a collaborative divorce.
An arbitrator is a private judge who makes binding decisions after hearing arguments and considering the evidence. The process is similar to a court hearing or trial. Arbitration decisions typically cannot be appealed.
In mediation and collaborative divorce, couples make their own decisions about their future.
Going through a divorce is one of the most challenging and painful experiences one can endure. Having a knowledgeable legal team by your side makes divorce more tolerable and ensures your rights are protected throughout the process.
At Twyford Law Office, we know there is no one answer to settling every divorce. That is why our attorneys assess the unique details of your case and choose the best possible avenue for success without trying to force you in a particular direction. Sometimes this means alternative dispute resolution.
Contact us today at (206) 590-7085 to learn whether alternative dispute resolution is suitable for your divorce. Your consultation is completely confidential.
Our Family Law Firm in Seattle, WA also provides:
Contact us today at (206) 590-7085
Twyford Law Office – Seattle Office
814 Second Avenue 515,
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: (206) 590-7085
Opening Hours: Monday through Friday
8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Our Seattle Office
814 Second Avenue 515,
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 590-7085
Our Spokane Office
430 W Indiana Ave,
Spokane, WA 99205
(509) 327-0777
Our Bellevue Office
1408 140th Place NE, Suite 400,
Bellevue, WA 98007
(425) 517-3350.
