Mediation and Arbitration

New Jersey Mediation and Arbitration Lawyers

At Copeland, Shimalla, Wechsler & Lepp, LLP , we are dedicated to employing methods of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), such as mediation and arbitration, as a way to resolve issues in a divorce. Whether we are working through issues involving child custody, child support, spousal support, or the division of property, our attorneys work to resolve the disputes of both parties in a cooperative forum.

The Benefits of Alternate Dispute Resolution to Resolve Family Law Disputes

Alternate Dispute Resolution allows you, rather than the family court, to control the process of resolving issues in your divorce. It provides you with the opportunity to make creative decisions regarding your divorce, child custody arrangements, support issues, and the division of assets. While courts are bound by strict rules and procedures, ADR provides flexibility in the negotiations, the time frames for resolving issues, and the evidence that can be presented. Generally, mediation and arbitration are less expensive, less time-consuming, and less stressful than divorce court litigation.

Mediation and arbitration allow you to work towards solutions regarding some of the most important decisions of your life. Contact us to learn more about your options in alternative dispute resolution.

Mediation

Mediation is a process in which a trained neutral person meets with two or more parties to a dispute to facilitate resolution of their issues. Unlike arbitration, the neutral party does not decide the issues, and the end result is non-binding. The mediator works with parties to reach a mutually acceptable agreement, and may bring in experts to address specific issues (i.e., business valuation experts, accountants, custody experts). Mediators do not provide therapy and they do not provide legal advice to clients or otherwise serve in any partisan capacity. Parties can choose to participate in mediation with or without counsel. However, when legal questions arise, for which the parties should obtain legal advice, they are encouraged to obtain legal advice from their own lawyers. We act as mediators, both privately and in court-mandated programs

Arbitration

Arbitration can be binding or not binding and results in a decision made by an arbiter not a judge. Through the arbitration process, the arbiter hears testimony and accepts evidence. At the end of the arbitration hearing, the arbiter will make a final decision about the case. Whether or not the decision is binding is up to the agreement of the parties reached before arbitration begins.  A benefit of arbitration is that you are able to schedule hearing dates that work for you, rather than having to comply with the Court's schedule over which you have no control. Our attorneys can represent you in arbitration to ensure that your best interests are articulated in the arbitration process.

If you are considering mediation or arbitration as an alternative to divorce litigation, please contact our firm. If arbitration or mediation does not work, we are skilled and prepared to litigate your divorce in court.

Contact our Warren, New Jersey firm by e-mail or call 908.922.4238 today to schedule a consultation with one of our divorce lawyers.

*Three of our named partners are Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as Matrimonial Law Attorneys.

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