Sekula Law Offices, PLLC, Is Dedicated To Helping Families From All Walks Of Life

Compassionate Guidance Through Divorce

Just like every marriage is different, so is every divorce. At Sekula Law Offices, PLLC, I work with families from all walks of life including nontraditional families and same-sex couples to design a divorce plan that works best for them, based on their unique circumstances. My name is Amanda Mason-Sekula, and I will take the time to listen to you in order to gain an in-depth understanding of your needs and legal goals throughout the divorce process.

Some litigated divorces end in trial, but many settle before then. Filing a court case allows the parties to have the benefit of the structured court process.

Alternatives To Going To Court

Filing with the court is a common practice when beginning a divorce, but it is not the only way. Parties can choose to participate in mediation prior to filing the dissolution with the court.

Mediation involves having a neutral mediator lead negotiations between parties without advising either party. The role of the mediator is to facilitate and oversee communication between the parties to help them reach a settlement. Mediation works well for parties who are sincere in their efforts to quickly and amicably resolve their pending issues. However, meditation is not always appropriate for all parties, especially in cases that involve domestic violence.

How Early Neutral Evaluation Works

Like mediation, ENE involves having a neutral third party facilitate communication. The key difference is that in an ENE, the neutral third party gives feedback, including potential settlement options and their opinion on the possible actions a judge might take if a contested matter went before the court. Parties may choose to participate in a social early neutral evaluation (SENE) to resolve social issues, such as custody and parenting time. Parties may also choose to participate in a financial early neutral evaluation (FENE) to resolve financial issues in the divorce.

Participating in mediation or ENE frequently provides clients with reasonable results and less stress than a trial would entail at a fraction of the cost in time and money.

Jointly Filing For Divorce

Sometimes, parties decide to jointly file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. Although the dissolution and the final terms may not be contested, it is always recommended that the parties sit down with an attorney to review the terms of the agreement before signing anything. At Sekula Law Offices, PLLC, I offer limited scope representation and can assist you in reviewing final agreements.

Contact Me Today

If you are considering filing for divorce or have already filed and are looking for guidance, contact my office to schedule a consultation in which we can discuss your options. Call 763-515-9305 or fill out my online contact form.