A Decree or Court Order is final in most circumstances. However, many times after a decree or Court Order is entered, it is understandable that parties may need to change the terms.
A modification may pertain to different important issues. These can include, for example, the termination or modification of alimony/spousal support, changes to a custody and/or parenting time arrangement, or child support.
You can ask the court to modify a family law order at any time. A motion asking the court for a modification will need to show the judge that there has been a substantial change in circumstances that justifies adjusting the previous order.
What you believe to be a substantial change in circumstances may not be recognized by the Judge in your case. Mediation removes the substantial change in circustances test and allows for you to reach an agreement to modify the terms of the prior order reflecting what is in the best interest of the parties.
Mediation can be significantly less expensive than working through the courts.
Mediation can offer a solution more quickly than a trial can. Mediation can be conducted in a week or two, whereas the entire trial process could take months or years.
Mediation can set the tone for your relationships going forward. Parties will still need to be able to communicate in some fashion.
Contact Laura Alpert today to discuss if mediation is right for you.