Your responses to the postings on this blog are tremendous. Thank you to all the readers who have shared their thoughts and opinions with me. Your emails are appreciated. However, the Viagra and Cialis spammers, we could do without.
Fortunately, our internet presence, i.e., the blog, MarylandMediationBlog.com, and the website, MdMediator.com, continue to attract people who choose to explore the benefits of mediation prior to, during, or instead of, litigation.
Many of the participants in my Maryland mediation practice choose mediation when a marriage is on the rocks. Mediation is a sensible and dignified alternative for parties who are unraveling the business that is their marriage. Almost equally divided these days are the couples I see with and without children. The couples without children seek to settle property disputes, such as the division of real estate and other valuable assets. Couples with children are usually focused on the issues of child custody, visitation, child support, and spousal (alimony) awards. With children or without, mediation helps couples preserve assets rather than exhaust college or retirement funds during protracted litigation.
Sprinkled throughout the mix of mediation participants are those who have disputes related to collection of business debts, dissolution of small businesses, breach of contract, conflicts with neighbors, and employer - employee issues.
Participants in mediation are usually at different places emotionally at different times. Emotions may present a significant road block to negotiation, which is necessary for dispute resolution. Mediation, though arduous at times is especially rewarding when you are able to push forward past the emotion and move toward resolution. I look forward to your continued comments and assisting with the challenges that your disputes present.
