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What CivilAgreement ® does:. The goal of CivilAgreement ® Mediation Services, Inc., [CAMS] is to make the transition into separateness for disputing parties as “civil” as possible while honoring the best in each party with biblical principals of respect and dignity. The Logo Explained.
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What CivilAgreement® does: The goal of CivilAgreement® Mediation Services, Inc., [CAMS] is to make the transition into separateness for disputing parties as “civil” as possible while honoring the best in each party with biblical principals of respect and dignity.
The Logo Explained The two lines of slightly different color represent the two lives (or parties) involved in a dispute. These two unique persons/parties, who have a lot in common which has drawn them to each other, have nevertheless come from separate beginnings. This is represented on the left hand side of the logo where the two lines begin in separate yet parallel positions.
The Logo Explained At some point in time, these two separate lives (or parties) have become involved with each other in some sort of relationship (e.g., husband/wife, clergy/church, missionary/mission board, employer/employee, etc.). This is represented in the center part of the logo where the two separate lines cross each other's path.
The Logo Explained The relationship at some point has become fractured and the parties need to go again their separate ways (e.g., separation, divorce, termination, retirement, lay-off, etc.). This is represented by the right hand side of the logo where the two lines again separate.
Getting Started Initial session addresses Agreement to Mediate and the Personal Data Information Sheets. Individual private caucus occurs with the mediators in the first session and upon request thereafter. Mediators may consult with outside persons of interest upon request and with permission.
Routine Sessions The mediators will present each topic for discussion. As each topic is resolved a new topic is begun. Agreement tends to breed agreement. Issues not agreed to will be marked and returned to at a later session. Assignments will be given to be completed prior to the next mediation session.
Real Time Drafting For most types of mediation, CAMS is able to provide“real time drafting” You might have some questions at this point: What is “real time drafting”? How can that help us?
Real Time Drafting Your mediator “starts with the end in mind” From the beginning of the process you are “working on” the actual document of agreement which a judge will enter as a court order Parties tend not to get distracted so easily You will instantly see your desired language of agreement loom on the wall in front of your very eyes, just like this PowerPoint presentation! Less time is wasted on “rearguing” dysfunctions which led to the breakup
Settlement Document You’ll both be looking at the actual Settlement document, as a work in progress, to which you can: Making changes Adding new provisions of agreement Reviewing and revising past changes
Do I talk to my attorney during mediation? You are encouraged to speak with your attorney at any time, including taking a break during a mediation session for a phone call.
Homework Assignments?Seriously? Sorry, but you will have homework. Mediation bypasses the costly “discovery” conducted by attorneys which means you each “give” your required “discovery” to each other via the mediator. You will need to fill out a financial asset inventory, a monthly budget, and the personal data information sheet. You will also need to collect and copy all of the “background” documentation for all assets (e.g. titles, bank account statements, tax returns, etc.).
Do the mediators ever talk with my attorney? Yes, but only with your permission, since every phone call your attorney has about your case is billed to you;also, collateral work by the mediators lasting longer than 5 minutes are billed by the mediators.
Can my attorney attend mediation with me? Individuals may choose to connect with their attorneys at any time during the mediation process. Having attorneys present during mediation sessions may occur with consent of all parties.
Final Steps One party will hire an attorney to take the proper steps in court. Your mediator will forward the proposed settlement agreement to either or both of your attorneys at your direction. As many revisions as needed will be made by your mediators at no additional cost to you.
How long does mediation for a divorce usually take? Mediation is usually conducted in 90-120 minute sessions. The amount of needed sessions varies with each case. The longest took 13 months and the shortest took one session! Many couples who are able to communicate well with each other finish the mediation within three to five sessions.
How much does divorce mediation cost? The cost of divorce settlement through mediation is a fraction of the cost of a litigated divorce. Fees are discerned at the complimentary orientation session.
How do we pay? The parties decide who pays how much of the mediation fee. Or….we mediate this issue in the first session. Fees may be paid at the beginning of each session. A client trust fund may be established rather than paying after every session. CAMS accepts personal checks or cash.
How do we schedule our complimentary orientation session? CallCivilAgreement® today at 312.236.6147 or email info@civilagreement.com