Choosing the Right Philadelphia Mediation Attorney for Your Divorce

By Sheryl Rentz on April 15, 2011

It can be a difficult decision to decide to divorce, and one that brings with it emotional issues and a high amount of stress. Many couples going through a Pennsylvania divorce decide to settle their affairs through mediation, rather than adding litigation and court appearances to their stress.

Mediation in Pennsylvania allows a couple who wishes to divorce a way to handle matters of divorce in an open, non-judgmental environment with an unbiased mediator, typically an attorney, facilitating the discussion. While the conversation is serious, mediation is generally very informal and communication between both parties can be made easier. Often, many couples find litigation does not permit them to state their side of the story or leaves them with a settlement from a judge they are unhappy with. In mediation, both couples are given an opportunity to air their grievances, and an agreement is reached that takes both of their needs into concern. Typically, issues such as child custody and visitation agreements, property division, and more are decided during mediation.

It is crucial, then, that you chose a mediation lawyer that has experience successfully helping couples in Pennsylvania in mediation during divorce. It is also very important you select an attorney you feel you can trust since they will protect your legal rights during the mediation process.

First, you need to make sure you are hiring a lawyer who actually has experience in mediation; not just divorce litigation. It is essential that they have real-world experience so you can know what you should expect during the process and know they can offer you the guidance you need. During your initial consultation, ask the mediation attorney about their specific experience, though do keep in mind they won’t be able to disclose many details due to client confidentiality. You should also take note of whether you feel comfortable with them during your meeting and whether you think they understand the details of your situation.

You should also be sure that you think the lawyer will respect your decision during the Pennsylvania mediation process, even if what you decide goes against what they feel is best. It is likely you have solid reasons for the decision you make, even if you are settling for less in some areas intentionally, and ultimately, the decisions are yours to make. If you think mediation may fit your needs, contact Sheryl Rentz, a highly skilled Philadelphia mediation lawyer at The Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz to learn more. Call 610-645-0100 today.