Mediation

[Zephyr]

In Wi, where I am a mediator, and the other mediators I know in our state, we won't touch cs- there's a guideline amount, and we proceed as if that will be the amount used. We will mediate other financial issues such as insurance or daycare costs and the like. But as far as cs goes, we don't want to risk the judge kicking back a well crafted parenting plan that the parents spent a lot of time and effort working on because they don't agree with the cs amount.

 

[GrowUp!]

Really, that's exactly why many states are moving to requiring that child support cases be mediated first. As I'm sure you already know, there just aren't enough resources in the child support system, so the hope is that an agreement can be reached BEFORE going in front of a judge. The intent is to saves time and money.

Wrong again.

 

[SingleMom67]

Wrong again.

I'm not wrong in the reasons why states are moving toward making it mandatory. However, I didn't say the process worked.

 

[GrowUp!]

I'm not wrong in the reasons why states are moving toward making it mandatory. However, I didn't say the process worked.

Don't backpeddle too fast. You might stumble and fall on your dumbass.

You stated "that's exactly why many states are moving to requiring that child support cases be mediated first."

You were wrong....regardless of whatever "reasons" you try to entertain us with. Child support cases are NOT up for mediation in many states. There is nothing stopping parents from mediating child support, but the court has every right to shoot it down if the court deems it is not in the best interest of the child. If someone is modifying child support alone, that does not go to mediation in many states, as guidelines already exist.

 

[SnS76]

im in nh and thats actually the first step also before we even see a judge .. my attorney explained we'll go for mediation to try and work out all the details and right now, that is only support amounts .. although she did say they would use the calculator to determine that ..

i dont know if thats the way more states are trying to handle things but i know in my case it is

 

[tuffbrk]

In NJ - My mediator is still working on getting my STBX to agree to an appt! However, with the mediation notice, it specifically noted that I s/b prepared to discuss and explain my preferences as it related to a Parenting Plan.

The mediator called to confirm an appt time, & he advised that the session is to attempt to obtain agreement between both parties related to the upbringing, visitation, etc. of the children. NOTHING FINANCIAL.

He said CS is included in the issues presented to an Early Settlement Panel (which both attny's are required to attend).

So although NJ tries to have you reach an agreement on CS, it is separate from mediation. Thus, when you go to court, only what couldn't be agreed upon (which very well may include CS anyway) is litigated.

I kinda got the impression fr reading this forum that many states differentiate btwn the 2.

 

[jbowman]

I kinda got the impression fr reading this forum that many states differentiate btwn the 2.

They do and that is why making blanket statements such as "most states..." or "many states require". It is confusing and irresponsible when giving information.