Certified Family Mediator in Weston Florida – Empowering couples by facilitating their future as a neutral party.
You’re ready to move on. You need to make if official. Doing it yourself is not an option. But spending a lot of money on a conventional divorce is something you need to avoid if at all possible. If this describes your situation, and your spouse is of the same mindset, mediation may be right for you.
Family Mediation as a divorce option – Frequently Asked Questions
Liliana L. Guarino, P.A. represents only one spouse. The other spouse is not a client of the firm, and the firm cannot provide legal advice to the other spouse. The other spouse may consult with an independent attorney before signing any document.
Yes, we do. We have partnered with Affirm, which offers flexible payment options that allow customers to pay over time, giving them control, convenience, and increased purchasing power. Learn more about Affirm.
If the court approves the documents and signs the final judgment, the divorce becomes effective upon entry of the final judgment. This often occurs at or shortly after the final hearing, but the timing is controlled by the court and cannot be guaranteed.
Court filing fees are set by the clerk and are separate from the attorney’s fee. Other costs, including service, certified copies, notary charges, or similar third-party expenses, are also separate when applicable.
Name changes are included in the package purchased from the court house. Name change is an option. There is no additional charge for changing your name if done during the final divorce stage with the courts. Name changes require personal appearance.
If someone decides to change a name after the divorce that would be a separate petition.
The Settlement Agreement and Parenting Plan are the final deliverables. Next you must purchase a package for divorce at the courthouse. Fill out the forms and file the petition for divorce without an attorney.
Only the petitioner appears for a final hearing where the judge signs a final judgement of the dissolution of marriage. No attorney is necessary. Mediators cannot file papers or appear with them in front of the judge.
You do not pay for 2 lawyers, only one mediator. Mediation allows for the minimum of court intervention.
Mediation is confidential. Should you choose divorce after attempting mediation, no information conveyed during the mediation can be divulged in court. Both parties sign a disclaimer that they understand how the process works.
A Family Mediator is a facilitator that acts as a neutral party. They do not represent either party. Both parties are always present. They dictate their goals to the mediator. A mediator asks questions and provides options without giving legal advice. The mediator prepares the agreement.
Mediation is less expensive than divorce. With mediation, you do not retain a lawyer. Mediation allows the both of you to make important decisions instead of leaving it up to a judge.
If you and your spouse can work together. If you both make decisions based on the best interest of the children and are committed to maintain that relationship for the children you are good candidates for Family Mediation.
*Please note: Liliana L Guarino reserves the right to determine if her Family Mediation service is appropriate for your situation.
