Ardmore Family Law Arbitration Tips

By Sheryl Rentz on February 23, 2016

Even the most contentious of separations can be settled out of court when families choose to go through arbitration. In family arbitration, the spouses appoint an arbitrator who will help make some key determinations. This allows the separation to go quickly and with less conflict.

Going to court is expensive, you can’t choose your judge, and the private details of your divorce could be made public. In arbitration, you get to choose an arbitrator and your information will remain private. It’s advisable to consider going through arbitration if there issues you simply can’t resolve.

Here are a few tips to reconsider for your family arbitration:

• Choose the right person to judge your case. If your case goes to court, you will receive the next available judge in the rotation. With arbitration, you and your ex will have an opportunity to choose an arbitrator whose background matches that of your case. Some specialize in visitation while others have expertise in property division or the division of business entities.
• Draft a list of issues. Write down every issue that you want decided through arbitration. Make sure that every issue that is important to you is covered on your list.
• Keep a diary to document the process. Your arbitration may take place over several days or weeks, in person or over the phone. Keep records of whom you speak to and what topics are discussed.
• Organize your financial documents. You will need a list of your assets including documentation of your bank accounts, mutual funds, retirement funds, real estate, vehicles, and other belongings.
• Be prepared to explain your opinions. Part of the arbitrator’s role is to understand both sides of each argument. You will have to outline your thoughts in a concise and clear manner so you can explain them clearly when the time comes.

Last but not the least, do not prepare enter into an arbitration without consulting an experienced Pennsylvania family law attorney who will bear your best interests as the proceedings continue. Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz, P.C. can help. You can reach us at (610) 645-0100.