Business Details
About
Arbitration & MediationDivorce Service
Divorce Mediation Associates, LTD offers trusted and fair divorce mediation and conflict resolution services to clients in Reston, VA. We also work with couples across the United States and internationally.
Location
Divorce Mediation Associates, LTD
11702 Bowman Green Dr, Reston, VA
20190, United States
Hours
Reviews
4.6
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- MMMarkFeb 27, 20202.0Not too smooth of an experience. Steve can sometimes stir more trouble than attempt to solve. Patrice is great and more neutral.
- MAMonica (AquaDust16)Nov 12, 20175.0Dr. Garver has a strong passion for her field of clinical psychology. She has had many years of experience working with kids, adolescents and adults. She demonstrates a great work ethic and she has a warm and friendly personality. I highly recommend her!
- JMJulie MayfieldJul 21, 20175.0I have known Dr Patrice Garver in a professional capacity for over 15 years. We have collaborated on numerous cases together and frequently refer children, adolescents and families to each other. She is my number one choice when seeking a referral for an evaluation or assessment on a complex situation with a child or adolescent. Her reports are thorough, well written and extremely useful for clinicians and parents in developing treatment goals and strategies. Dr. Garver is an excellent clinician with an innate ability to evaluate the needs of families she works with and is insightful in developing appropriate interventions that are relevant to her clients. She has had extensive training in treating children and teens who struggle with loss, trauma and divorce and is highly respected in the mental health community in the Washington DC metropolitan area. Her ethical foundation and follow through are excellent and she is a team player who sets high standards for herself. She is one of the most accomplished professionals I have ever known and her passion and devotion to this field of work is obvious and apparent to anyone who has the opportunity to work with her.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Mediation Associates, LTD
How is mediation different than litigation?
Mediation is a collaborative process in which the parties work together to reach an amicable solution for their legal issue, while litigation is a contested process in which the parties are treated as adversaries. There is little communication between the parties during litigation, and their attorneys represent their positions and interests. In mediation, the parties uncover their mutual interests and try to reach a settlement outside of court, while litigation is a battle inside the court.
What if we have concerns about paying for the mediation?
Mediation is far less expensive than the alternatives. We are much less expensive than traditional lawyer representation in obtaining a divorce settlement or a litigated solution and we believe that the process is far better for you and your family. We are also much less expensive then Collaborative Divorce alternatives. You generally pay as you go so there are no retainers to pay. Too, if you qualify with certain low income and net worth you may qualify for reduced fees for mediation. We can evaluate if you qualify at the end of your introductory session.
What if we can't communicate, don't get along and seem to not agree on anything?
We have worked with couples who have not had a civil conversation in five years. In fact, most partners separation involve communication challenges. Although it is easier and better if you do have a good relationship, we often are able to help couples who otherwise can't communicate to resolve their issues. Our integrative mediation model provides an environment to enhance communication focusing on providing a voice for each partner and encouragement that you are able to hear your partner and provide understanding. We can then work to problem solve for your mutual benefit rather than being adversarial.
What are the advantages of family mediation?
Mediation is particularly suited to resolving family matters because it focuses on minimizing the conflict between the parties. This often allows spouses to leave on better terms and to act as better co-parents with each other after the issues are resolved. Family mediation can also resolve problems faster so that the impact on the children is minimized. Additionally, it improves communication between the parties and gives them a process they can use later if a problem arises.
Is family mediation cheaper than using lawyers to handle a divorce?
Family mediation is usually cheaper than using lawyers for a contentious divorce. Spouses can often reach common ground on many of the legal issues involved in their case, including agreeing to a custody arrangement, amount of child support, property division, and spousal support. This can help transform a contested divorce or custody case to an uncontested one in which the parties simply ask the judge to enter the agreement as a court order, if necessary. Probate costs can be split between the parties. Litigation is often expensive because multiple costs and fees may be incurred by both parties, such as attorney's fees, discovery costs, expert witness fees, and potential fees to pay for a guardian ad litem to represent the interests of the child involved.
When is divorce mediation not appropriate?
Divorce mediation is not appropriate in all cases, including those involving domestic violence, when one party is actively hiding information or exerts much control over the other. Parties should be on equal footing when engaged in the mediation process. For more information, contact Divorce Mediation Associates, LTD today.
What if my partner or ex-partner is completely irrational or unmovable?
Sometimes parties may start out as irrational or unmovable. However, a good mediator can often provide useful information to get the party to reconsider information, such as legal standards, recent court rulings on similar issues, and the consequences of not reaching an agreement out of court. Additionally, the mediator can separate the parties during mediation so that they do not directly interact with each other. The mediator can communicate information back and forth between the parties until a final agreement is reached. This approach may help when the parties have trouble communicating together.
If I already have a lawyer, is it too late to mediate my case?
No. Mediation can be used at any point during the process. Additionally, many people bring their lawyers with them to mediation so that they are aware of their rights and the ramifications of making different agreements during this process.
What if we cannot agree on all issues?
Even if you cannot agree on every issue involved in your case, mediation can still be an effective process. Many parties are able to resolve their case shortly after participating in mediation because they were able to agree on key issues, and they realized the importance of maintaining control over their case rather than having a judge make a decision on it. Even if the case is not ultimately settled, the parties can reach an agreement on certain issues, so the remainder of the time is only devoted to resolving the contested issues.
Will I be left with a legally binding agreement in divorce mediation?
A mediated agreement is usually binding as a separate contract. However, most parties will submit their agreement to the family court so that it can be incorporated as an official court order. If either party violates the terms of the agreement, they can ask the court for relief.
How does mediation differ from litigation in resolving divorce disputes?
Mediation is a collaborative process aimed at reaching an amicable solution, while litigation is adversarial with limited communication between parties.
What are the cost considerations when choosing mediation for divorce?
Mediation is generally far less expensive than traditional lawyer representation or Collaborative Divorce alternatives, with pay-as-you-go fees and possible reduced fees for qualifying low income clients.
Can Divorce Mediation Associates help couples who have trouble communicating?
Yes, their integrative mediation model enhances communication, providing a voice for each partner and fostering understanding even when parties have not communicated civilly for years.
What are the advantages of choosing family mediation for divorce issues?
Family mediation minimizes conflict, often leads to better co-parenting, resolves problems faster, and improves communication for future dispute resolution.
Is divorce mediation cheaper than litigation involving lawyers?
Yes, mediation is typically less expensive compared to the costs associated with contested divorces, including attorney fees and additional litigation expenses.
When is divorce mediation not appropriate?
Mediation is not suitable in cases involving domestic violence, unequal power dynamics, or when a party is hiding information or exerting control over the other.
Can I mediate my divorce case if I already have a lawyer?
Yes, mediation can be used at any stage and many clients bring their lawyers to ensure their rights are protected during mediation.
Where is Divorce Mediation Associates, LTD located?
They are located at 11702 Bowman Green Dr, Reston, VA 20190, USA.
What nearby places can I visit when attending a session at Divorce Mediation Associates in Reston?
Nearby places include John Chung Institute Tae Kwon Do, Marriage Counseling Alternative, and Pathways to Health, LLC, which can offer educational, counseling, and wellness services that might complement your mediation journey.
Are there any legal or financial services near Divorce Mediation Associates that clients might find useful?
Yes, nearby legal services like Boyle, Garver Law Offices, and Zell Law, as well as financial advising from T.M. Wealth Management, are available to assist clients with related legal and financial needs.
What recreational or wellness facilities are near Divorce Mediation Associates in Reston?
Clients can visit Shiraz Fitness for gym services, Reston Healing Center for chiropractic and holistic care, or enjoy parks like Accotink Park for relaxation before or after their mediation sessions.