What Is A Mediator’s Role In Divorce?

Question:

I am about start to mediation in the divorce process and my wife is insisting that the mediator is going to side with her on certain child custody and parenting time issues.

I thought mediators were not allowed to make those types of decisions and were only there to help us reach a joint agreement.

Can a mediator dictate our divorce terms? What is a mediator’s role in divorce?

Answer:

I am unable to give you legal advice on divorce. I can give general divorce help for men, though, my knowledge is based on Georgia divorce laws where I am licensed to practice.

Mediation is a procedure intended to allow the parties to reach an agreement between them. The role of the mediator is to assist the parties in reaching an agreement on the issues relevant to their case.

The mediator will use his or her skills to assist the parties in making his or her own decision by providing information, clarifying issues, helping explore alternative solutions and suggesting possible compromises.  He or she will ask questions and play “devil’s advocate.”

The mediator’s goal is to get the parties to reach an agreement. The mediator cannot dictate that the parties agree on any issues. In the event the parties are unable to agree on one or all of the issues, the final determination will be left to the judge and/or jury at trial.

Remember, I am unable to provide you with anything more than divorce tips for men, so please consult with divorce lawyers for men in your jurisdiction.

To arrange an initial consultation to discuss divorce rights for men with a Cordell & Cordell attorney, including Atlanta, Georgia Divorce Lawyer Amber R. Piotrowicz, contact Cordell & Cordell.