Family Mediation Petersfield

Using Mediation to Settle Family Disputes Arising from Wills and Estates

As the saying goes, “death and taxes are the only certainties in life.” When someone passes away, they leave behind a will or estate plan that outlines their final wishes. However, sometimes family members may disagree with the provisions of the will, leading to disputes that can be costly, time-consuming, and emotionally draining. One way to avoid lengthy and costly court battles is to use mediation as a tool for resolving family conflicts over wills and estates.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution  where someone aids and negotiates between the parties. Unlike litigation, where a judge makes the final decision, mediation allows the parties to reach a mutually acceptable solution that meets their needs and interests. Mediation is voluntary, confidential, and non-binding, which means that the parties can choose to settle or not settle, and the mediator does not have the power to impose a decision on them.

Advantages of Mediation for Family Conflicts Over Wills and Estates Using mediation to resolve family conflicts over wills and estates offers many advantages, including:

1. Cost-effective: Mediation is typically less expensive than litigation because it involves fewer attorneys’ fees, court costs, and other expenses.
2. Time-efficient: Mediation can be scheduled and completed much faster than a court proceeding, which can take months or even years to resolve.
3. Private and Confidential: Mediation is a private process, and the parties can agree to keep the proceedings confidential, which means that they can avoid airing their family disputes in public.
4. Preserves Family Relationships: Mediation helps to preserve family relationships by allowing the parties to communicate and reach a mutually acceptable solution. This can help to avoid the bitterness and resentment that often results from a court battle.
5. Customized Solutions: Mediation allows the parties to come up with creative solutions that meet their specific needs and interests, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all court decision.
6. Greater Control: Mediation gives the parties greater control over the outcome of the dispute, rather than leaving it in the hands of a judge.

How Barclay Devere Can Help

At Barclay Devere Petersfield, we understand that family conflicts over wills and estates can be emotionally challenging and complex. Our experienced mediators are trained to help families navigate these difficult issues and reach a mutually acceptable solution. We provide a safe and confidential space where the parties can communicate and work towards a resolution that meets their needs and interests.

Family conflicts over wills and estates can be contentious and costly. Using mediation as a tool for resolving these disputes offers many advantages, including cost-effectiveness, time-efficiency, confidentiality, and customized solutions.

At Barclay Devere Petersfield, our mediators are committed to helping families resolve these disputes in a way that preserves relationships and avoids unnecessary litigation. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.