Alternative Dispute Resolution

Let us help you settle your disputes without litigation.

Dischell Bartle Dooley can help you avoid the time delays, cost and anxiety of going to court. In addition to our traditional strong advocacy, we provide alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services to attorneys, outside parties, and members of our client base for family law issues. ADR refers to various methods for resolving disputes outside the traditional courtroom setting. These methods include negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. Our Family Law Department offers ADR services for divorce, custody, support, and personal property. Elizabeth Billies is available for mediation services, and Mark Dischell is available for arbitration.

Mediation

In family law mediation, a neutral third party, known as a mediator, facilitates communication and negotiation between the parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable agreement.

The mediator does not have the power to make decisions or impose a settlement but instead helps the parties to identify their interests, explore options and find solutions that will work for both parties. As a result, family law mediation is often considered a less confrontational and less expensive option to going through the difficult, expensive, and complex court system.

Mediation is commonly used in family law as it allows the parties to reach an agreement tailored to their needs and circumstances. Both parties get to meet with the mediator, who will try to work out solutions to family law disputes so that both parties can reach a satisfactory conclusion with some compromises on each side. The process can also help preserve the parties relationships, especially when children are involved.

Arbitration

Arbitration is similar to mediation in that it is a less formal and less expensive option than going to court, but it differs in that the arbitrator, a neutral third party, makes a binding decision, like a judge.

In family law arbitration, the parties present their case to an arbitrator who, after hearing both sides, makes a decision on the dispute. The arbitrator's decision is legally binding and will generally be enforced by the court. This means the parties must accept the decision and cannot appeal it.

Family law arbitration is often considered a quicker and more efficient way to resolve disputes than going to court and can also be less expensive. It can also provide more privacy and control over the process for the parties involved. However, unlike mediation, the parties have less control over the outcome of the arbitration as the arbitrator makes the decision for them, and the process is less flexible than mediation.

Why Pursue Alternative Dispute Resolution Services?

Leaving the decision up to the court can lead to bitterness and even failure of the two parties to follow through with their responsibilities following the divorce settlement. Using a mediator or an arbitrator can relieve some of the stress and leave both parties in a more positive state, leading to a better long-term family dynamic.

Dischell Bartle Dooley's family law attorneys are court-approved, neutral mediators or arbitrators who will not take sides and are concerned with the interest and well-being of both parties and their children. We can help you, your spouse and your attorneys work toward effectively resolving your situation. Call 215.362.2474 or contact us online to determine if mediation or arbitration can benefit you in your current situation.