Manitowoc And Green Bay Lawyers With Experience In Mediation For Unmarried Parents
Resolving conflicts doesn’t require courtroom battles, including issues that unmarried parents experience. You can use mediation as a cost-effective alternative to litigation for settling disputes related to the family.
We at Alpert & Fellows, LLC, have been helping families in Manitowoc and Green Bay since 1976. Our long-term experience includes providing legal support for unmarried parents. We offer personal mediation services to help you gain control over your family’s future.
Why Mediation Is A Requirement In Wisconsin
When unmarried parents decide to separate, concerns about custody emerge. Under Wisconsin law, the court must refer you and your co-parent to Family Court Services for mediation to discuss child custody. Attending at least one session is a requirement before a judge can consider moving the case to trial.
It is important to note that the father must establish paternity by signing a voluntary paternity acknowledgment or a court-ordered paternity action before the judge grants final custody or placement orders. This follows a petition filed by either parent in Family Court.
Avoiding High-Conflict Disputes Through Mediation
Mediation introduces a neutral third party that manages the conversation. They don’t take sides or provide legal advice. Instead, they help each party communicate their issues respectfully. Mediators also control the parties’ emotions by ensuring that their focus remains on the matter. They provide helpful prompts to start discussions about creating a customized parenting plan.
If you face high-conflict disputes with your partner, you may opt for separate sessions. The mediator can meet each party separately to reduce tension. This option can help you think about possible parenting solutions that advocate for your child’s best interests.
Addressing Grandparents’ Visitation Rights In Mediation
Litigation pits relatives against parents, which can negatively impact children. Through mediation, families can preserve bonds and approach the matter with collaboration and open-mindedness. It provides a private environment for parents and relatives to speak candidly without exposing personal matters to public court records or forcing children to pick sides. Families can design flexible, custom schedules that seamlessly fit the core parenting plan.
Talk To A Manitowoc or Green Bay Attorney Who Understands Mediation
At Alpert & Fellows, LLC, we are knowledgeable in many areas of family law. We can answer your questions about mediation for unmarried parents. Schedule a consultation at our office in Manitowoc or Green Bay by calling us at 920-335-1308 or submitting an online contact form.