What does a family law mediator do?

by | Jul 10, 2013 | Lawyer

The primary objective of a mediator in family law in Boise Idaho is to understand the issues a family has; mediate them and arrive at a decision that is of benefit to all parties concerned, especially if there are children in the mix. Most family law mediators are practicing attorneys but there are other professionals that are certified to resolve family disputes. In most cases the concerns of the mediator are divorce, child custody and support.

A primary responsibility is to sit with a couple who are having difficulties getting along with one another but they do not want to divorce, in cases like this the mediator acts like a family counselor. The mediator in family law Boise Idaho area will sit with the parties and get to the root of the issues that are causing trouble in the marriage. There are many causes for strife; common issues are the loss of a child, issues with the relationship and outside influences which have caused changes in ones behavior. In cases like this, the mediator listens to both parties, speak with the children if there are any and probably suggest that the couple seek therapy and then come back for continued mediation.

There are many cases where the couple has already decided that a divorce is the solution. In cases like this the couple may need counseling on matters of importance such as child custody, the division of property, etc. The mediator may be only offering general guidance as in most cases, when the situation reaches this point; the couple has engaged their own attorneys who will provide the mediator with the demands of the couple. The mediator will just review the couple’s joint assets, their current debt, income and expenses that are regularly incurred as a result of the children. The mediator will perhaps meet with the couple and then provide his findings to the lawyers who are involved who in turn submit the final solution to a family court judge for approval.

A family law mediator has to file agreements with the court and other authorities, send the judge relevant case papers and stay in touch with the parties about any important case updates. Most mediators undergo continuous training through seminars which keeps them updated on current family law.

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