Why You Should Consult a Lawyer Before Mediation

Have you contemplated attending mediation to work out an agreement with your former partner? You should know that while mediation is encouraged and even a mandated conversation a lawyer must have with his client prior to commencing a court proceeding, mediation is not binding. Although, under the right circumstances, it can be binding. You should also know that for court-associated mediation, a limited free service, lawyers do not attend. You should never go into a mediation without speaking to a lawyer first about your rights. It is ok to not proceed with court and want to resolve your dispute out of court, but you should know your rights prior to attempting mediation.

A 30-minute consultation with a lawyer on a straightforward parenting/child support issue, could cost you around $400, a small price to pay to get the agreement right the first time. For more complicated matters, you should contact my office to inquire about a quote for a consultation. If you attend mediation without speaking to a lawyer first, you may be giving away your rights or entering into bad agreements. Finally, you should know that while mediation agreements may not be binding, you can apply to the court to turn your mediation agreement into a court order so it is binding. Call my office for a quote, if you wish to turn your mediation agreement into a court order