Turning to Mediation TO FACILITATE A SETTLEMENT If a divorce case can’t be settled between lawyers quickly, mediation is a good option for spouses to settle their case without having to go to court. In mediation, each spouse is in a separate room with their own lawyer. A third, impartial professional, usually another divorce attorney, will act as mediator and go between rooms to help the parties reach a settlement. For example, at our law firm, we meet with our client in our office and let their spouse and attorney meet in the conference room. In mediation, there’s no requirement for anyone to do anything other than show up. It takes away the pressure of having to come to an agreement — you’re just there to have a talk that is facilitated by the mediator. The duration of a mediation session varies, though most last for 2–6 hours. During mediation, everyone involved will try to prepare a contract that both parties will agree to.
BEST DIY GIFT IDEAS Looking for gift ideas that don’t break the bank but still show the special people in your life how much you care? Do-it-yourself (DIY) gifts are the way to go. Here are a few ideas to put together on a chilly night. Pull out your crafting supplies, turn on some holiday tunes, and get creative. FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST
BEST DIY GIFT TO MAKE WITH THE LITTLE ONES: Handprint Apron
Having that third party who can see things differently is the defining feature of mediation. It’s different from arbitration. Everything that happens in mediation is confidential and cannot be used in court. Because everything that’s said stays with the mediator, people can talk more openly to settle a case. It creates an environment where spouses feel free to discuss and decide on a settlement. Clients should always meet with their attorney before their mediation to talk about what type of settlement makes sense. Before mediation, both parties should also exchange information that allows them to negotiate in good faith and with an understanding of the marital finances. This information also helps the attorneys. The best divorce attorneys will go into mediation with a draft of the settlement terms.
Aunties, uncles, and godparents will love a gift that incorporates their favorite little ones, and it’s a great way to get the kids in on the project. Choose some unadorned aprons from your local craft or home goods store and some acrylic paint in a variety of colors. Then get crafty! The kids can use their handprints as a starting point and add other decorations as they like. You can also find some fun ideas on the blog Little Page Turner, like painting a butterfly from your kids’ stamped footprints. Have fun with it!
BEST DIY GIFT FOR YOUR BESTIE: Personalized Mug
If you’re interested in mediation as a way to settle your divorce, give Bruce Law Firm a call today.
You only need a mug and an oven-safe or porcelain marker to create this personalized gift. Use a mug you already own, or pick one up from the dollar store or thrift store, and get expressive! You could write a sweet or funny message (“but first, coffee” or “two shots, hold the chatter”) or list their favorite beverage (“coffee, no sugar” or “green tea”).Write something that makes them think of you, or create a simple drawing. Enjoy the artistic freedom as much as they’ll enjoy your thoughtful gift.
Is your friend or client in need of a guide as they prepare for divorce? our divorce strategy book can help!
BEST DIY GIFT FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL: Memory Map
The book can be downloaded for FREE at GetOrganizedForDivorce.com.
Utilize a map, a pair of scissors, some glue, and your memories of meaningful places to create this sentimental gift. Choose map locations that are meaningful to you and your special person — where you met, where you celebrated special moments, where you first lived — and cut them out in geometric or heart shapes. Then, glue the cutouts to a piece of matboard. You can add kind words at each point, or let the places explain themselves. Place in a frame and gift to your loved one.
If your friend or client lives in the South Florida area, we will mail them a hard copy of the book upon request.
2 • BrucePA.com
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