Family mediation in Louisiana is used to address a number of issues that impact families. Family mediation in Louisiana may be used to settle conflicts that arise during a divorce for example or it may be used to defuse ordinary disputes that emerge between family members. No matter how complicated or emotional a dispute may seem, family mediation in Louisiana can help.
At the beginning of family mediation, the mediator will obtain an understanding of the parties’ positions in the dispute. This is typically done by talking with the parties together or individually depending on the circumstances. Next, the mediator will help the parties find ways to compromise their positions which may include suggesting different ways for the parties to settle their dispute. This is usually accomplished by addressing one issue at a time, but the mediator will determine the best way to approach the disagreement.
During mediation, each party has the opportunity to openly and candidly discuss the case with the mediator. These conversations may be held jointly or in private. However, if done privately, the mediator may ask each party if certain statements may be disclosed to the opposing parties. In this manner, the mediator facilitates communication between the parties because they will begin to understand why each party feels the way that he or she does.
As each issue is resolved, the mediator will make a note of the parties’ agreement before moving on. If all of the issues are resolved, the mediator will write up the full agreement for the parties to reference. If the dispute involves a family court case, the agreement will be submitted to the court by the parties or their counsel, where it will be legally enforceable.
If the parties do not reach a full agreement, the session was not a waste. Whether the case involves court or not the parties may choose to schedule another mediation session to resolve the case, or they may attempt to negotiate a settlement themselves.
