We are excited to announce our latest, innovative alternative to traditional divorce… Collaborative Mediation. Our clients can utilize this groundbreaking approach right here at McGill Law!  McGill Law is honored to be the sole law firm in the Nebraska and Council Bluffs area to offer Collaborative Mediation.

What is Collaborative Mediation?  Collaborative Mediation is a hybrid of the two most efficient methods of divorce currently available – Collaborative Law and Mediation. Collaborative Mediation offers our clients one streamlined process that can be more satisfying than either process alone. The parties agree at the outset that they are going to work toward resolution in a transparent and respectful manner with the help of a neutral mediator. 

Collaborative Mediation is an offshoot of Collaborative Practice in that litigation is off the table and we bring in other professionals, as needed, to assist the participants in reaching a fair agreement. 

The mediation sessions are led by Theresa Loughran, a neutral and experienced family law attorney. The parties have the option of utilizing the assistance of a marriage/family counselor and/or a neutral financial advisor to guide them through the process. Specifically, Theresa offers education about the law and facilitates discussions without advocating or advising. She also helps the parties gather important information, develop options for an equitable property division and cohesive, family-centered parenting plan. The marriage/family counselor assists with the strong emotions either party experiences and offers tools for effective communication. The parties may also choose to utilize the expertise of a financial neutral that can offer advice on assets and debts, analyze budgetary needs, and help plan for a secure financial future. 

Why is Collaborative Mediation the Right Choice? A divorce can be costly – this we all know. With Collaborative Mediation, you and your spouse can maintain control over the cost, ultimately saving your money for retirement or college funds. While saving money, you also gain the wisdom and expertise of a neutral attorney/mediator, an empathic family counselor and/or a future-projecting financial neutral. It is also undoubtedly more efficient and expedient than a traditional divorce and even the collaborative divorce model.

For so many reasons, Collaborative Mediation can open the door for you and your spouse to navigate the divorce process in the most fulfilling and peaceful way. If you feel your goals match with the ideals of this unique process, contact us to see if Collaborative Mediation is a good option for you and your family.   We are honored to help you begin the next phase of your lives. You can do this – and you can do this in a positive, respectful manner by choosing Collaborative Mediation.