Mediation uses a third-party neutral to facilitate the resolution of a dispute. Mediation can be utilized as an alternative to court, or can be utilized even during a traditional litigated divorce. Mediation is most useful when people want:

• to avoid a long-drawn out court battle
• an impartial person to assist them in finding solutions
• a long-lasting resolution
• to find common ground when it comes to children or other issues
• to solve their conflict while retaining their dignity
• to save money

For those who want to step away from the court process, but who need help because they disagree as to child support, spousal support, custody, visitation, property division, etc., there is mediation. A trained mediator is a neutral party who does not represent either side. The mediator helps both parties get creative to reach consensus. The mediator is not permitted to give legal advice, and the parties' attorneys usually do not participate in the mediation sessions themselves.

Attorney Fout is an experienced divorce attorney and trained mediator, who has completed the 40+ hours of training required by Rule 16 of the Rules of Superintendence for Ohio Courts. Attorney Fout is also trained to mediate other types of disputes as well (e.g., probate, inheritance issues, post-decree divorce matters such as change of custody or visitation, etc.)

More information on Mediation

Although many have never heard of this option, it has been in use for over 20 years. It is most useful when people want to:

• minimize the impact of the divorce on their children
• protect their privacy by avoiding public disclosures of private business matters in the courtroom
• obtain a divorce (or resolution of any family law matter, such as custody) with their dignity in tact
• preserve their ability to communicate with their former spouse
• create customized solutions for their family
• set the pace and timeline for the resolution of conflict

Collaborative Law involves a settlement team that includes both parties and their collaboratively-trained attorneys. The group signs a pact not to go to court, and to resolve their differences creatively through a series of meetings with the settlement team. A Financial Neutral and/or Communication Coach may be utilized from time to time, if necessary, to facilitate settlement. If the parties fail to resolve all of their disputed issues through the Collaborative process, they may hire new attorneys and litigate those remaining issues.

Attorney Fout has attended intensive training in Collaborative Law and is the President of the Northeast Ohio Collaborative Professionals - a practice group aimed at improving their collaborative skills through monthly meetings and training.

More information on Collaborative Law

Clip from the Today Show about Collaborative Law (7 mins)

Video explaining Collaborative Process (20 minutes)