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Collaborative Law and Mediation in Bath, New York

Whenever possible, divorcing couples should do everything they can to reduce conflict and litigation in the divorce process. Collaborative divorce and mediation are excellent alternatives to tough negotiated settlements and intense, public divorce trials.

I am David G. Wallace, a Bath, New York lawyer with more than 30 years of experience in divorce and family law. I can help you find a method of divorce resolution that best fits your unique circumstances. Call 607-583-3062 today or contact my office online to schedule an appointment.

Using "alternative dispute resolution" methods like collaborative law and mediation, you can resolve all issues related to divorce, including:

Collaborative Law

With collaborative law, the divorce process begins when each spouse signs a binding agreement that says they will not enter trial litigation or withhold any documents that could be relevant to drafting a fair divorce settlement. Then, working in roundtable discussions with their respective attorneys — often along with a health care professional and financial expert — they negotiate until they reach a divorce settlement that they both find agreeable.

Collaborative divorce settlements have many advantages over conventional adversarial settlements. Since both spouses agree to the settlement rather than having a judge deliver a verdict, they tend to be more satisfied with the end result. In addition, collaborative divorce is often less expensive than regular divorce. Since the spouses work together to create their settlement, they often separate on reasonably good terms with each other.

I believe that a couple using collaborative law can solve any conflict; even those that they thought would be irreconcilable.

Divorce Mediation

Mediation is another form of alternative dispute resolution. In mediation, one licensed mediator acts as a "go-between" between each spouse and their respective lawyers. Each party proposes terms for the divorce settlement, and the mediator relays these proposals back and forth until they are able to reach a negotiated compromise.

Is Mediation or Collaborative Law Right for You?

Not every couple is able to resolve their differences cooperatively. For some couples, the divisions are too deeply ingrained. For others, an unfair balance of power in the relationship makes it impossible to negotiate on equal terms.

If you are interested in collaborative divorce, mediation or even an uncontested divorce, I can help you evaluate your options. I provide experienced, personalized, reputable and attentive legal services. To schedule an initial consultation, call 607-583-3062 or contact my office online.