Not Every Case Requires Court. We Can Help With Mediation.
In addition to being an attorney for more than 25 years, with extensive courtroom experience, attorney Stefanie Drake Burford is a registered mediator for both civil and domestic cases. She received her training with the prestigious Henning Mediation, and is registered to mediate cases in Cobb County, as well as the 7th Judicial Administrative District which encompasses Polk, Paulding, Haralson, Bartow, Douglas and Floyd counties. We have an excellent success rate in helping parties reach settlement throughout Georgia.
Understanding Mediation
In many cases, mediation is faster than litigation. It also offers structure, without the rigidity or formality of courtroom proceedings. As a neutral third party, our mediator helps resolve disputes in a way that works for all parties.
Stefanie can facilitate a resolution by having an open discussion. At The Stefanie Drake Burford Law Group, our number one priority is helping each party find common ground and finding creative solutions based on your needs. Everyone’s concerns will be heard, and we will help negotiate a settlement that can satisfy all parties.
Mediation is usually a voluntary process, although sometimes it can be court-ordered. Both parties maintain control of the process – from deciding when and where it takes place, to who will be present, and how it will be paid for. Once all parties reach an agreement and put it into writing, it goes into effect.
Answering Commonly Asked Questions About The Mediation Process
Choosing the right method of conflict resolution is a significant step. Below are answers to some of the most common concerns we hear from clients, to help you determine if this is the right path for your dispute:
What are the key benefits of choosing mediation over litigation?
As mentioned earlier, mediation is typically faster and less expensive than traditional litigation. It is also a private and flexible process, allowing for creative solutions that a judge may not be able to order. The mediation process also offers a more collaborative environment. By working together, parties can often preserve important relationships, which is especially valuable in family or business disputes.
Is mediation confidential and private?
Yes. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the mediation process. The discussions, negotiations and offers made during a session are private. Either party cannot use any of these in court if the case does not settle, with very limited and specific exceptions. This creates a safe environment for open and honest communication.
What types of cases can be resolved through mediation?
As a registered mediator for both civil and domestic cases, Stefanie can help resolve a wide range of disputes. This includes legal matters such as:
- Divorce and child custody
- Business and contract conflicts
- Personal injury claims
- Real estate or neighbor disputes
Most civil cases can benefit from this form of conflict resolution.
How is mediation different from arbitration?
In mediation, the mediator is a neutral facilitator who helps the parties reach their own agreement. The mediator has no authority to make a decision or force a settlement. In arbitration, the arbitrator acts more like a private judge who listens to both sides and then makes a final, binding decision to resolve the dispute.
Can mediation help if we have already started court proceedings?
Yes. Mediation can occur at any stage of a dispute, even after either party has filed a lawsuit. In fact, many judges will order parties to attend mediation before they will schedule a trial date, believing it is a valuable opportunity for the parties to resolve the case themselves.
What are the possible outcomes of mediation?
If the parties reach a full agreement on all issues, they can write this into a legally binding contract. If they only reached a partial agreement on some issues, the case may proceed to court, but the mediation would have narrowed down the contested issues. Even if the parties cannot reach an agreement and the case does not fully settle, mediation often helps clarify the issues and opens lines of communication.
We Can Help With Dispute Resolution. Call Us Today.
Mediation offers a confidential and more collaborative path to resolution, away from the stress of a public trial. At The Stefanie Drake Burford Law Group, we are committed to helping you, no matter how big or small your case. We have a spacious downtown Marietta office in the historic Brumby Building to host mediation sessions. To book your mediation with Stefanie, please call 770-462-5489 or submit a request through our online form.
