Mediation

Mediation is the attempt to reach an agreement with the help of a neutral third party. The mediator has no power to make rulings about your case.  The mediator's role is solely to try to help the parties reach a compromise.

We frequently refer clients to Jeffrey Beaton, Esq., an attorney who has made mediation a focus of his practice. He can be reached at (757) 412-4123 and his website is  www.thecenterforlawandmediation.com

In child custody cases, Virginia law now requires the judge to refer the parties to mediation. Virginia Code Section 20-124.4 The Court notice of this requirement usually includes a list of mediators. While private mediators such as Jeff Beaton charge for their services, court-ordered mediation is free.

While mediation is definitely a good idea, you should be careful what you agree to do.  It is preferable to have an attorney write the agreement.  Agreements written by mediators frequently are difficult to enforce because they are omit essential information or use vague wording.