Mediation:
Mediation is a process by which a professionally
trained and experienced third party aids
disputing parties find a satisfactory resolution
to their conflict. The mediator does not make any
decision for the parties, but rather organizes
the discussion, provides general information and
guides the process so that the parties have an
opportunity to arrive at the best solution
possible under often difficult circumstances.
Parties entering mediation may or may not be
accompanied by attorneys or friends, depending on
their wishes. This method is very effective in
resolving the majority of Parenting Plan and
other family law related disputes.
Mediation-Arbitration:
Mediation-Arbitration is a combination of the
process of mediation and arbitration. The parties
agree to mediate a dispute, and if mediation is
unsuccessful, they then have the option of
requesting that the mediator-arbitrator fully and
finally decide their disputed issues.
Arbitration:
Arbitrations are often held to avoid a contested
court appearance, such as a Motion for Temporary
Orders or trial. An arbitrator is usually paid by
both parties to serve in a similar role to that
of a Judge or Family Law Commissioner. The
parties agree that the arbitrator will have the
power to fully and fairly decide their dispute.
Arbitrations are usually less formal than a court
proceeding. Arbitrations typically occur in an
attorney’s office. Testimony is taken and
evidence elicited in a more relaxed manner than
what occurs in court. It is generally the rule
that arbitrations are less expensive and
stressful than a litigation alternative.
Settlement Conference:
A Settlement Conference is very similar to
mediation and arbitration, except the third party
will give his or her educated opinion as to how
the dispute would most likely be resolved by a
judge at trial or hearing. The parties are free
to accept or reject this opinion and with the
help of the third party, may resolve the dispute
based on the opinion or some variation of it. No
decision can be imposed on the parties without
mutual consent.
Our
firm consist of three lawyers, Peter W. Mogren,
Ronald E. Glessner, and Ruth A. Roti. Our
emphasis is in family law, wills and probate, and
personal injury. Please click on the topics
above for details about these areas of practice,
including divorce, legal separation, property
division, child support, spousal maintenance,
parenting plans, modifications, paternity,
adoption, wills, Community Property Agreements,
Durable Power of Attorney, and probate.
Our
firm is conveniently located in Renton, King
County, Washington, just off the freeway at the
intersection of I-405 and I-167. Our
attorneys represent clients throughout the State
of Washington, including the communities of
Renton, Kent, Tukwila, Seattle, Bellevue, Auburn,
Maple Valley, Federal Way, Des Moines, Burien,
SeaTac, Enumclaw and most of south King County.
The free information contained in
these pages is not
intended to be legal advice, and does not
create an attorney-client relationship. You
should always consult with an attorney before
taking any action. Feel free to call us at
425-255-4542.
