Post-Decree Mediation

Post-decree mediation is a process which allows you to address issues arising after a Court Order is in effect; as well as taking less time, with less conflict, and with significantly less expense than the traditional legal process and litigation. Post-decree issues include but are not limited to: financial matters, child support, spousal maintenance, parenting time and other important parenting issues.

Benefits of a Mediated Post-Decree Settlement:

• Significantly controls costs, both financially and emotionally
• Opportunity to be creative and address important non-legal issues
• Benefits children by reducing conflict
• Establishes a foundation for effective co-parenting
• Mediated agreements tend to be more satisfying than imposed court orders
• Confidentiality
• Focuses on the present and future, not the past

You may be surprised to know that most MN post-decree cases (over 90%) are settled before they ever reach a court room. Mediation is so effective that the State of Minnesota requires you make a good faith effort to settle your divorce through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) before appearing in Court – so why not start with a process which is proven to work as well, if not better, than litigation?

To read about state ADR requirements, take a look at the ADR in the MN State Court System brochure.

Post-Decree mediation allows you to discuss these important issues in a safe and constructive environment. It also allows you to easily exchange the documentation necessary to reach settlement. Mediation is not a way to side-step the law, it is a process which allows you to control your own future and ensure the best possible outcomes for you and your children. Click here for Mediation FAQs.

Although many of Ms. Serwat’s clients reach complete post-decree settlements without retaining an attorney; some need and/or want legal representation and most require the services of an attorney to draft post-decree legal documents. If your situation warrants legal representation or if you simply feel better knowing that you are legally represented your lawyer is welcome to participate with you in the mediation process. Starting post-decree mediation without attorneys in no way limits your right to retain an attorney in the future and/or appear in court.

SUPERIOR SERVICE: All mediators are not created equal! Although mediators are not decision makers, they do have a significant impact on your divorce process. Mediators set the tone and guide you through the rough patches. Therefore, it is wise to research mediators and select one who respects your sense of fairness, recognizes the importance of self-determination, helps generate creative solutions and facilitates workable agreements.

Please call 952.252.1492 to learn more about post-decree mediation services.