What is a Pro Se Represented Mediation?
A Pro Se client is an individual who represent themselves in pending legal or court proceedings without an attorney. Pro Se representation has its advantages and disadvantages. Some pro se litigants save time and money, but many lack the legal training and experience to successfully prove their case. However, if the two parties are in agreement on the issues and are looking to bridge the small nuances and terms of the agreement a Pro Se Mediation may work for you. So alternatively, parties can meet with a mediator without an attorney to settle their issues. However, the mediator cannot represent or provide counsel to either party, they must remain neutral.
The mediation process is designed to assist separating couples (as well as families) in conflict, to reach an agreement between themselves, privately, confidentially and informally. It allows the parties to maintain control of their decisions. It employs the skills of a neutral and impartial third party, the mediator, who assists the individuals to make their own decisions by providing necessary information, clarifying issues, helping them explore alternative solutions, and suggesting possible compromises. The mediator has no power to render a decision or to force the parties to accept a settlement. Because the voluntary settlement that the parties reach is designed by the parties themselves, it is more likely to be carried out without the need for external enforcement or further litigation.
Issues mediated may include custody, visitation and child support; alimony or spousal support; division of assets; and the tax impacts of various alternative decisions.
Attorney Amber Boles’ Opening Statement for Mediations WITHOUT Attorney Present
