Most final parenting plans contain provisions for resolving disagreements between the parties in carrying out the terms of the parenting plan. These disagreements may involve the visitation times or places of exchange or any other provision in the parenting plan. In many child custody cases, Seattle arbitration and mediation, kinds of “ADR”, are the most common types ordered. Generally, Seattle arbitration is where the parties each submit their offer for resolving the dispute to an appointed or agreed upon third party. This person is usually an attorney with many years experience in family law and she will decide the outcome of the dispute for the parties in lieu of court action. In general, “mediation” means that the parties attempt to negotiate a resolution through the help of a third party neutral family law attorney or other mediator, who assists the parties in making agreements in light of the relevant law.

If ADR is required, it must be completed before going to court. If ADR fails, and the parties cannot agree, they may then petition the court to resolve the dispute. There are special rules involved in appeals of an arbitrator’s decision, and a Seattle Arbitration or family law attorney can discuss these with you.

In recent years, the use of “ADR” has increased as courts have shown a preference for resolving disputes outside of court. Thus, Seattle Arbitration and mediation procedures have occur more often. One reason for this preference is simple efficiency. Attorneys, judges, and parties spending a day in court is very inefficient and costly. Another reason is that parties generally abide by mediated agreements in family law disputes more closely than by court decisions. Mediation encourages overall harmony by trying communication and Seattle Arbitration before fighting in court.

If you are concerned about a dispute in a parenting plan, first consult the dispute resolution section first. Look for names of persons or organizations to be contacted to begin the ADR process. In any event, consulting with a qualified family law or Seattle arbitration attorney can help you understand your resolution options.