Oaks
 

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a process for assisted problem solving and negotiation.  Typically, the mediation model we use at Oaks Resolution Group is A Friendly Divorce and does not include attorney participation.

 

However, you may stop the process at any time if you wish to consult with or retain an attorney.

Typically, divorce mediation takes between two and seven hours, depending on the issues and the personalities involved. We mediate some divorces in a single session. And, sometimes the process occurs over time, with a series of face-to-face and telephone sessions.

​

The desired outcome of the mediation process is a complete Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) which reflects a couple’s future plans for their children and their finances. Following each mediation session our clients receive a draft of their customized agreement. Ultimately, when the Marital Settlement Agreement is complete the mediator reads it with the clients and it is signed and notarized.

 

In general, mediation is often faster, cheaper, simpler, and more private than other options. Additionally mediation offers participants an opportunity to process their anger, address future events, and create customized resolutions that meets their individual needs.

​

What does a Mediator do?

A mediator is a neutral (as to the participants) and impartial (as to the outcome) facilitator. Mediators have no decision-making authority.  The mediator creates an environment for collaboration, communication, and problem solving; provides analysis, information, and options; and facilitates discussions between the parties in order to help them identify, define, and re-frame their needs and issues.

​

The mediator may use a combination of joint and individual conferences.  Occasionally the mediator may make suggestions, ultimately however the parties make the final decisions.  Once a resolution is reached the mediator puts the parties’ agreement into writing and completes the required documents.
 

What subjects/topics/issues will be covered during the mediation process?

Anything you both agree needs to be discussed can be discussed in mediation. The mediator will help you create the agenda for your dialogue.  In the case of divorce this agenda should include how you will divide your debts and your financial resources.  If there are children involved a time sharing and decision making plan, as well as the details regarding child support, must be included.

​

Who completes all the required forms?

Each member of the A Friendly Divorce network offers a one-stop divorce service.  Your mediator will make sure that all of the forms you need, in order to obtain an uncontested divorce, are filled out.  Our standard forms package includes a petition for dissolution, an answer, two financial affidavits, various other paperwork that the court requires, notarizing these forms, and courier service to the Clerk’s Office in order to file the document package.  However, other options also exist.  Talk to your mediator about how his or her services and other options in your community can best meet your needs.

Do I still need to hire an attorney?

The majority of our clients do not use attorneys during the divorce process.

We are all aware of the negative consequences of a traditional attorney-driven divorce. However, the traditional attorney-driven divorce model is still the right model for some families. An attorney is necessary when one spouse needs legal protection. So, for example, if one spouse does not know what the marital assets are or how much the other spouse earns, s/he may want an attorney to investigate all of these details before agreeing to any financial arrangements. Additionally, if one spouse feels intimidated as the result of domestic violence or other coercion, negotiating without a lawyer may not be the best idea.

Oaks Resolution Group cannot offer legal advice, protect either spouse’s legal rights or investigate in order to find hidden assets. If that is what you need you should seek guidance from an experienced attorney. If that is not what you need, you can use our service and supplement the process (if you choose to) by consulting with an attorney or CPA before or during the mediation process so that you can obtain a legal opinion as to your worst and best case scenarios.

We encourage all of our clients to consult with independent legal counsel and an independent CPA prior to signing any documents, if they would feel more comfortable doing so. Additionally, as you go through the mediation process you may find it helpful to read Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes and/or consult with other experts such as a Forensic CPA, Tax Attorney, Business Appraiser/Valuator, Real Estate Appraiser, Real Estate Attorney, Antique and Collectible Appraiser, Financial Planner, Child Development Specialist, and/or a Psychologist or other mental health professional.

What if we have children but did not marry?

When unmarried parents find their relationship is at an end they often need to find parenting solutions for the children that they share.  The issues involved can include legally establishing who is their child’s father (called Establishing Paternity), creating a time-sharing schedule, and/or calculating child support payments.  Your mediator can help you and your co-parent reach agreement regarding time sharing with your children, child support, and other expenses. 

What if we don't have children?

When spouses or partners are ready to dissolve their relationship, mediation can help them work through the divorce process even if they don't have children together. There are still assets and finances to work through and a mediator can complete all the required documents. 

Where are you located?

Oaks Resolution Group is located at 7520 W. University Ave, Suite A in Gainesville. We are off Tower Rd in the Tower Hill Office Park. We also provide virtual mediation sessions. ​

​​​

Is mediation covered by insurance?

 No. Just as an attorney or other family law related matters aren't covered by insurance, neither is mediation. ​

​

​What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept debit cards, credit cards, and payments through Venmo or Cashapp.​

​

How do I get started?

If you are ready to take the next step and learn more about our mediation process, please fill out the contact form and we will get back to you.

​

​

​

​

​