You are unable to spend thousands of dollars in court costs and lawyers' fees. You want to maintain some control and dignity during a very difficult time. During a separation your self-esteem can get pretty battered. Mediation, on the other hand, rests on the premise that each person has legitimate concerns. If you are still are unsure which way to proceed, consider consulting with both a mediator and an attorney.
Some professionals offer free initial consultations.
Ask questions about the procedure, time frame, costs, payment method, the percentage of cases they successfully settle, other consultants you would need. Remember that you can stop mediation at any time and hire a lawyer to litigate. Or, if you've started working with a lawyer, you can shift to mediation, then return to a lawyer for legal advice and filing your mediated agreement with the court. She is the Executive Director of Divorce and Family Mediation Services with offices in Glen Burnie and Columbia, and is affiliated with Arundel Psychotherapy Associates. ONLY Do not take any actions based upon the information contained within this web site without first consulting an attorney or an appropriate professional depending upon the content of the information.