Our Divorce and Family Law Mediators serve clients in Hackensack, Paramus, Teaneck, Ridgewood and across Bergen County NJ
Divorce is difficult for everyone involved. It can also be hard on children whose parents are now at odds and in many cases may even be fighting over custody. Even young children can often feel the tension and anger which often arises in such a contentious situation. Most parents would agree that their children are the number one priority in a divorce process, and we believe there is a better way to keep their best interests at heart.
Traditional, litigation based divorce has its place, but we believe it can be detrimental when children are involved. Litigation can lead to a situation where both sides feel like they must “win” in order to walk away successful. Of course in order for their to be winner, their must also be a loser. This combative mindset serves no one, particularly the children stuck in the middle.
In all of this, it can be easy to forget that the true goal of both parents is most likely the well-being of the child. Regardless of what has led to the point of divorce, child custody dispute, or other legal issue regarding your child, working towards the best solution should be priority number one. We offer several alternative methods that will save you and your family the hassle of going to court.
Hackensack Mediators Serving Families across Bergen County, NJ
At Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark, our partners are parents too. We understand that you are not just a case to be won, but responsible, loving, and protective parents who may not know the best way to move forward in these difficult situations. Our team of attorneys is led by three lawyers recognized by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as Certified Matrimonial Law Attorneys, an honor earned by only 2% of practicing lawyers in the state. Lean on our experience to work with you through the mediation process to bring a positive result without the cut-throat tactics.
Call our office to discuss your individual needs and concerns when it comes to any issues involving children in mediation in a free and confidential consultation with our attorney team today.
Benefits of the Mediation Process on Children
It is important to remember that children will know if their parents are fighting. In divorce proceedings, it may feel inevitable that you and your spouse will be at odds, but there are several methods which can lessen that burden and keep tensions as low as possible.
Mediation is an alternative method for resolving legal disputes without going to court. It is not legally binding in any way, and is only meant to be a method by which both parties can communicate and work towards the end goal of an acceptable agreement. This is sometimes confused with arbitration, the results of which are legally binding.
Professional mediators do not need to be attorneys and they do not represent one side over the other. We often recommend selecting and independent moderator who will then be employed by both parties in an impartial manner. The job of the moderator is to understand the concerns and objectives of both parties and help recommend a mutually beneficial solution for both parents. Mediators understand that the best interests of the child is paramount, and will work with the information provided from both parents to reach an agreement with that in mind.
Many times, mediators are able to help parents see that their concerns are not so different, and that they can in fact find a positive solution for everyone involved. If not, most parents still find value in the mediator’s input and it can be a useful tool towards finding common ground.
When it comes to disputes over children, the mediation method can be beneficial not only to quickly and inexpensively find the best solution, but it may also protect your child from seeing a drawn out legal battle pour over into their home life.
Ridgewood NJ Collaborative Attorneys Protect Your Children While Resolving Complex Divorce Disputes
Again, keeping in mind the ultimate goal of conflict resolution without the turmoil of litigation, collaboration may be the best choice for many parents. Children already understand that their parents may not be best friends at times of dispute, but they are also intelligent and sensitive enough to see when both parties are working amicably towards a common goal.
Collaborative conflict resolution is very similar to mediation in that it involves all parties working to try and reach a positive conclusion outside of the courtroom. The collaborative approach is slightly more defined, and the primary difference is that it requires both parties to agree in writing that they are committed to resolving all disputes outside the courtroom. This binding arrangement may seem limiting, but the purpose is to give assurances that each individual sees the value in working towards a common goal and will work to that end without the threat of litigation.
Collaborative divorce in particular often involves bringing in outside experts such as psychologists, financial analysts, accountants, and child therapists. Again, these experts are working for both parties involved to reach a mutually beneficial and, hopefully, the best outcome for everyone involved.
Contact our Hackensack Mediation Attorneys Today
At Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark, our team of specialized family law and divorce attorneys includes several members who have completed extensive training and education in order to become approved by the Superior Court of New Jersey as qualified mediators pursuant Court Rule 1:40-12. Laurie L. Newmark, one of our partners, served as a panelist for the Morris County and Passaic County Matrimonial Early Settlement Panel Mediation Programs.
Our goal is to provide our clients with a positive experience which will not prolong the process or cost you any unnecessary fees. We strive to provide flexible solutions for our clients, including mediation and collaborative solutions, particularly when children are involved. We are here for you as your mediators or as your collaborative law attorneys to seek the best possible outcome for both you and your family.
For additional information regarding our services, contact our offices in Hackensack, Bergen County at (201) 397-1750. We will be happy to provide you with a comprehensive overview of all of your legal options so you can make the most informed decisions for your family’s future.
