Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Solving problems early on and in a different way

At the Minneapolis, MN law offices of Katz, Manka, Teplinsky, Graves & Sobol, Ltd., our family law attorneys believe that divorce rightfully is considered a last resort for marriages that are in trouble and on the path to dissolution. As a result, we seek whenever possible to avoid contentious legal proceedings.

The firm advocates mediation for divorcing Minnesota couples who have been directed to or seek to find a way other than the courtroom to settle these differences.

The ADR process

In almost all counties in Minnesota there will be an attempt early in the divorce process to have the contending parties seek some form of alternative dispute resolution.

This will typically take the form of mediation, which is a process in which a neutral third party, typically an attorney trained in mediation, will attempt to assist the parties in reaching their own compromise settlement of some or all issues between the parties.

A few things are important to know about the mediation process:

• The mediator does not make decisions, but rather facilitates a discussion between the parties (sometimes alone and sometimes with the assistance of counsel) aimed at reaching settlement of your issues.

• The mediation process is confidential, and if you are not successful in reaching a mediated settlement, the judicial officer will never learn what positions either party took in mediation.

• As part of the mediation process, the mediator will request that both parties provide an accurate summary of income, assets and liabilities. It is recognized that sometimes one party controls some or all of this information, and skilled mediators attempt to assure that there is a full and fair disclosure of financial information, and a full and fair discussion of the issues.

You are entitled to be heard

Should the mediation process fail, Katz, Manka, Teplinsky, Graves & Sobol, Ltd. will be by your side every step of the way in the divorce process.

You should never be in a position where the legal process treats you with anything less than fairness and respect. We can ensure your interests are heard, and that the process of marriage dissolution and dispute resolution is equitable and respectful of your interests, and especially those of children who may be involved.

Protecting the rights of Minnesota family law and personal injury clients for more than 50 years

Katz, Manka, Teplinsky, Graves & Sobol, Ltd., primarily a family law and personal injury law firm, represents clients from throughout the Twin Cities area and beyond, including:

Contact us today online or by calling 612-333-1671. Allow us to explain how we can assist you.