Interior of the Office at Smith Legal LLC.

Using Mediation To Resolve Issues Out Of Court

The entire legal system is ultimately aimed at resolving disputes. Unlike court, mediation allows the parties to determine their own fate in a confidential process through compromise and agreement. A mediated agreement, once approved, is enforceable by the court. The value of resolution, without the costs, stress and uncertainties of litigation, is immeasurable.

I am a registered civil and domestic relations mediator, experienced as both an advocate and mediator in a variety of legal matters. I mediate all types of disputes, including:

  • Divorce
  • Complex asset division
  • Post-dissolution modification of custody, parenting time or child support
  • Paternity
  • Child custody
  • Parenting time
  • Contested Adoptions

I use a personable, one-on-one approach at a very affordable rate. The mediation rate for civil or domestic cases starts at $300 per hour. If my Noblesville law office, located in historic downtown Noblesville, is not convenient for my clients, I will travel anywhere in the state to offer mediation services. Please contact me to discuss my rate and availability for a half-day or full-day mediation.

Mediation: What To Know

Mediation is a popular alternative dispute resolution process that has blossomed and grown for many reasons, but primarily because mediation works. Mediation, unlike arbitration and trial, empowers the parties, not a third party, to make the decisions to settle their case – to decide their own fate and the terms upon which they will move forward.

Through mediation, parties can talk openly about options to amicably settle issues or elect to proceed with litigation.

Why Choose Mediation?

Mediation is an expanding and often required (by county local rules) step in family law matters. Mediation quickly grew in popularity and success over the last two decades. Though a contested bench trial is an effective way to terminate a marriage, alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation, offers several benefits:

  • Privacy: Court proceedings are necessarily public. Mediation allows you to keep your private issues private. The mediated settlement agreement does need to be filed with and approved by the court.
  • Cost-efficiency: Typically, mediation does not cost as much money as a trial does. Every case, though, is different.
  • Time-efficiency: Mediating a divorce also generally takes less time than litigating one. A high-conflict, contested case can last months, if not years.
  • Amicability: Finally, many couples find that mediation helps them maintain a more positive relationship.

Granted, not every couple can choose mediation. If your spouse is noncooperative or you cannot reach an agreement in mediation, you may wish to consider a trial. As a litigator, I can represent you effectively in court as well.

The Convenience You Need

With mediation suites located in historic downtown Noblesville, the mediation process takes place in a unique setting where parties are separate, private, and comfortable accommodations, Wi-Fi access, lunch/dinner, free coffee and soft drinks. Historic downtown Noblesville allows easy access to Noblesville businesses, the Hamilton County Judicial Center and government offices. Downtown Indianapolis is only 40 minutes away.

Speak To Me To Learn About Mediation

When you need an experienced negotiator and mediator, I am ready to help you through mediation. Reach out to me to schedule a free 15-minute initial consultation. Call me at 317-953-2572 or send me an email.