Family Mediation

The Benefits of using Positive Solutions vs. Lawyers

	Positive Solutions Divorce Services®	Lawyers
Format	Both parties hire a neutral third-party mediator.	Each party hires their own lawyer.
Outcome	Win-Win – Peaceful and Amicable.	Win-lose – Litigious and Adversarial.
Cost	Typically, less than $3,500 per person.	10’s of thousands of dollars per person.
Quotes	Know your costs upfront (Customized packages).	Not available – cost is ongoing and unknown.
Time	The parties decide how long it will take but typically no more than 3 months.	Court proceedings, lawyer’s schedules, adjournments and lengthy negotiations can take several years.
Strategy	Designed to create amicable relationships.	Designed to create conflict.
Decision Making	Couples make decisions that are in their best interests and in the best interests of the family.	Very unpredictable – a Judge will make decisions for you – you are not in control of the outcome.
Stress	Mediators support you every step.	Overwhelming and emotionally draining.
Privacy	All information remains confidential.	All information submitted to the court becomes public record.