Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law Mediation In West Virginia

On this page, you’ll find answers to questions you may have as you consider utilizing mediation for your divorce or child custody matter. After reading, please contact Lyne Ranson Law Offices, PLLC, with any additional questions you may have.

How does mediation differ from traditional divorce proceedings?

Mediation is an alternative to traditional divorce proceedings,

using a more collaborative approach with you and your spouse or other parent. Unlike a court trial where a judge makes the final decisions, mediation involves both parties working with a neutral third party, known as a mediator, to reach a mutual agreement. This process is typically less formal and more flexible, allowing you and your spouse to communicate directly and work toward solutions that best suit your family’s unique needs.

What are the benefits of choosing mediation for my divorce?

• It generally costs less than a traditional divorce, as it often requires fewer hours of legal assistance and reduces court fees. You do not need an attorney to mediate.
• It is faster, enabling you to resolve issues and move forward with your life more quickly.
• Importantly, mediation promotes a cooperative atmosphere, which can be particularly beneficial if you have children and need to maintain a positive co-parenting relationship.
• Finally, it gives you more control over the outcome, as you and your spouse work together to make decisions rather than leaving them to a judge.

How long does the mediation process take?

Each case and its issues are unique. The factors that will impact the length of proceedings include:

• How motivated and willing both spouses are to reach an agreement
• How many divorce or custody terms are in dispute
• The complexity of the issues to be resolved (such as high-asset property division compared to a divorce involving more modest assets)
• The quality of counsel provided by each spouse’s attorney

While there is no standard resolution length, mediation is typically much faster than going through the court system. Many cases can be resolved in a few sessions over the course of weeks or months. The flexibility of mediation allows you to set a pace that suits your schedule, making it a more convenient option for busy families.

Why should I use Lyne Ranson as a mediator?

Lyne has been an experienced family law mediator for nearly 30 years and is very successful in settling cases. She has practiced family law for years in all areas of the state and is very familiar with the law and the courts.  She was a circuit judge and has been recognized for her work in family law.

What happens if we can’t agree during mediation?

If you cannot reach an agreement during mediation, you still have the option to pursue traditional divorce proceedings. The discussions and proposals made during mediation remain confidential and cannot be used in court, which allows you to explore solutions freely without concern about future implications. If mediation is unsuccessful, the unresolved issues can then be addressed through litigation, where a judge will make the final decisions based on the evidence and arguments presented.

Get Your Questions Answered During An Initial Consultation

From our office in Charleston, Lyne Ranson Law Offices, PLLC, we serve clients throughout West Virginia. To learn more about mediation and how our legal team can assist you, contact us to request an initial consultation. Just call 304-932-0591 or reach out online.