Mediation Attorneys in Lexington, SC

Mediation is the process of working with a neutral domestic relations law firm to settle certain sensitive family matters outside of the courtroom. Although traditionally used to negotiate legal separation agreements and divorce settlements, the experienced Lexington family mediation attorneys at Kinard Law Group might help you develop co-parenting plans, draft prenuptial agreements, and address household matters.

Difference Between Divorce Mediation, Arbitration, and Litigation in South Carolina

If you’re considering legal separation or divorce, you must follow certain procedures to protect your property and, if applicable, child custody rights. The parties have three options in family law cases:

Litigation

Couples may choose to file for legal separation or divorce directly with the Lexington Family Court without engaging in prior counseling or mediation sessions. The judge may recommend or require mediation, but you have the option of working with a divorce lawyer to litigate these matters based directly on South Carolina domestic relations laws.

Mediation

Family mediation is a type of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) where couples sit down with a neutral domestic relations lawyer to discuss their legal rights and negotiate a divorce settlement. There’s no set time limit on mediation, and you can schedule as many sessions as you need to work towards a fair divorce settlement. Unlike couples therapy, mediation lawyers in Lexington understand South Carolina family law and can guide the process based on potential legal outcomes. The goal of mediation is to draft a settlement contract that becomes legally binding when the court issues the final divorce or separation order. 

Arbitration

Arbitration is like mediation except that the arbitrator can make legally binding decisions in non-custody-related matters. Family arbitrators might listen to the parties and render decisions on spousal support (alimony) and property division, but they do not have authority over any issue directly impacting shared children.

Domestic Relations Matters Addressable Through Lexington Mediation

Mediation can be used to address all legal matters related to divorce, including:

• Alimony (spousal maintenance or support)
• Property division
• Premarital agreements
• Communication
• Co-parenting plans
• Child custody (pending court approval)
• Additional child support

The parties may enter binding contracts related to these matters that override state property distribution and alimony laws, but they can only propose ‘recommended’ custody and visitation plans. Courts must review and approve proposed custody agreements under the state’s best interest of the child factors.

Benefits of Using an ADR Family Law Firm

Litigation is more contentious and expensive than engaging in mediation. Many couples benefit from working with one neutral family lawyer rather than paying individual divorce attorneys who charge premiums for court appearances. Additionally, mediation is private and might prevent sensitive matters from appearing on the record. It’s also adaptable to your work and childcare schedule, offering flexible session times and even virtual options in a safe and comfortable environment.

Consult Our Family Mediation Lawyers in Lexington

Even if you cannot agree on every issue, working with the dedicated mediators at Kinard Law Group can reduce your legal fees, identify contention points, and potentially resolve sensitive personal matters off the record. Discuss the benefits of scheduling your first confidential family mediation session with Kinard Law Group today by calling (803) 359-1003 or connecting with us online.