By: Sandra Crawford, JD, Mediator, Collaborative Lawyer1 As a family law attorney who has worked it the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) space for over 30 years now, I have been often called upon to explain to clients and professionals alike how conflict resolution using ADR models (which for me are Collaborative Practice and Mediation) and traditional adjudication (litigation) differ. One of the best explanations I have come across in my many years of studying ADR is from the work of Canadian professors, Cheryl A. Picard (Carleton University) and Kenneth R. Melchin (Sanit Paul University ..read more

Are you considering divorce in Indiana? If so, you’ve likely heard about divorce mediation as an alternative to traditional litigation. However, there are many misconceptions surrounding divorce mediation that may be holding you back from exploring this option fully. At Keystone Mediation in Dyer, Indiana, we believe in providing clarity and debunking common myths about divorce mediation to help you make informed decisions about your future. Myth #1: Mediation is only for amicable divorces. Reality: While amicable divorces can benefit greatly from mediation, it’s not the only scenario where me ..read more

Guest Post written by: Jamie Lee Vesely Experiencing a divorce is undoubtedly one of the most challenging events in a person’s life. As someone deeply involved in the legal field, I have witnessed the stress and bitterness that often accompanies the traditional adversarial divorce model. Families are torn apart, children suffer from ongoing tension, and the aftermath leaves both parties feeling resentful. However, there is a more constructive approach that I believe provides a better solution for families going through such difficult times. My journey into the world of Alternative Dispute Reso ..read more

Going through a divorce is undoubtedly a challenging experience, however it doesn’t have to be a contentious legal battle. After the holiday season, it is common to see an increase in filings for divorce. In Indiana, couples have an alternative option that allows them to navigate the divorce process without a lawyer – mediation. In this blog post, we’ll explore the advantages of choosing mediation over a traditional litigated divorce, focusing on the unique aspects of divorce without a lawyer in Indiana. Understanding Divorce Without a Lawyer in Indiana Divorce laws can vary from state to stat ..read more

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and with it brings a time for reflection, gratitude, and of course, delicious food. It’s a time when families and friends gather around the dinner table to share a meal and express their appreciation for one another. However, it can also cause tensions to rise, and old conflicts can resurface. Keystone Mediation is committed to fostering peaceful conversations and helping people find resolution, so in this blog, we’ll explore some Thanksgiving conversation starters that can help you keep the peace at the holiday table this year. Topics for Thanksgiving Co ..read more

Parenthood is a demanding journey. If someone insists otherwise, they’re likely not telling the whole truth. While there are undoubtedly joyful moments, the reality is that being a parent is a round-the-clock, 365-days-a-year commitment, and it’s undeniably challenging. Nevertheless, I’d like to propose what might be a somewhat contentious viewpoint: stepparenting can be even more challenging. Allow me to explain.  Biological Parenting vs. Stepparenting The role of a biological parent is relatively clear-cut. Yes, it varies somewhat from family to family, influenced by personalities, pred ..read more

Co-written with Anna Dennin of Analyse the Assets, CDFA® and Mediator.  Recently, a group of professional mediators through the Academy of Professional Family Mediators met to discuss a growing trend for what they were calling marital mediation. After a handful of meetings, it became clear that this type of mediation was in demand for many different types of relationships, from siblings, to marriages, to college roommates, to friendships. So, what do you call this type of mediation?  Introducing Interpersonal Mediation Interpersonal, (adj.): relating to relationships or communic ..read more

This year’s celebration of Independence Day got me thinking. What is it about freedom – not only as a country but as individuals – that is so important and appealing to us. What does it really mean? In today’s world and political climate this question could trigger a debate instantly. But if you take politics out of it and really think about the bigger picture – what does independence really mean to you as you make your life choices?  The Need for Independence and Autonomy There is a three-year-old lunatic that lives in my house. It is in equal parts adorable and infuriating when she has ..read more

Going through a divorce can be an incredibly difficult and emotional experience for most Hoosiers. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, angry, and unsure as to what the next steps should be often lead clients to turn to Google or the internet about how to proceed with a divorce. A quick google search for divorce leads most to a long list of attorneys in the area who offer divorce as part of their legal services. However, did you know that mediators in the State of Indiana can also help you through the divorce process and draft and file most of your legal documents as well? Through mediation in Indian ..read more

Co-written with James Robenalt of Next Page Mediation For many, March is the month couples conclude their marriage. March is infamously known as “divorce month” in family law circles. Statistics show that rates spike in the early months of the year, peak in March, then subside, and rise again in August when children return to school.  Why March? The reasons for the March Madness up-tick in divorce are varied.   The holidays often prove to be a tipping point. While many wish to avoid breaking news of divorce around the holiday dinner table (especially when children are involved), fres ..read more