It is recognized that resolving issues about parenting time, custody, or other parental rights has the potential to disrupt the lives of children. It is common for litigation of this kind to cause children experience depression, decreased self-esteem, and an increased risk of mental illness later on in life. Additionally, the stress and costs associated with resolving these matters in a court of law are often detrimental to parents. 

While it is unfortunate, it is not always possible to avoid litigation. When things like the fitness of a parent or the harm of a child are involved, the assistance of a court is often vital. 

In many other situations, however, the majority of disputes are successfully resolved outside of a court of law. In some situations, proceeding through a court of law might even counterproductive. Fortunately, in these situations, several other methods can be utilized to resolve parental disputes. 

Improving Parental Communications

By working on their communication skills and expressing their message in the most peaceful way possible, it is sometimes possible for parents to resolve issues that previously seemed insurmountable. There are even co-parenting apps that monitor emails for potential hostile phrases before sending them to the other parent. Other parents benefit by understanding that they will likely be navigating these matters with the other parent for a long time and the best strategy is to improve their communication.

Counseling

If improved communication is not capable of resolving matters, parents should consider whether the assistance of a counselor would be helpful. These professionals are often equipped to counsel both parents or families. Family therapy is a particularly powerful way of resolving matters when each family member has been negatively impacted. It is important to remember that therapy is only helpful if family members are direct and honest about the challenges being faced.

Mediation

Mediation is not for everyone, but for some family matters, mediation is a powerful tool. Non-adversarial and non-confrontational, mediation is focused on solving problems rather than pitting parties against one another. 

Mediation is confidential, which can be advantageous for parents who want to keep issues about the details private. If a family does decide to proceed with mediation, it is critical to retain a mediator who is familiar with navigating family law issues. The mediation process will involve an exchange of ideas and suggestions about various methods that can be used to solve a family’s conflicts. Private mediation is often preferable as compared to court-ordered mediation because private mediation allows families more time.

Speak with a Family Law Attorney

These methods can not resolve all family disputes that arise, but they are frequently more desirable than proceeding through a court of law. The best ways to determine how to resolve your family law matter is to speak with a knowledgeable family law attorney. 

Contact Vayman & Teitelbaum, P.C. today to schedule a free initial consultation.