Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
We offer appointments by phone, video, or in-person.
Andalman and Flynn logo

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Domestic disputes come in all shapes and sizes.

That’s why Andalman & Flynn takes a customized approach to their resolution. Collaborative practice, mediation, and arbitration are all forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) used in place of litigating a divorce or other matter in court. Our compassionate and experienced family law attorneys always strive to maintain respect among family members and to minimize negative effects on any children that may be involved. We seek to create agreements that are optimal for all parties involved. We’ve also found that relying on the lengthy formalities of the court systems to solve certain legal issues isn’t always necessary. Because many court dockets are often booked months in advance, this can also mean inconvenient and impractical delays. In many cases, ADR can provide a faster and more affordable means to resolution. The use of ADR also typically reduces stress for all parties and provides more flexibility in determining the outcome and terms of the legal resolution.

We help you find solutions that are right for you.

At Andalman & Flynn, our seasoned counselors realize that each client’s circumstances are unique. We spend significant time with you to learn about and understand your personal needs and goals. Based on your situation, our attorneys determine which approach to pursue in order to achieve optimal results. There are different forms of ADR, all of which are available at our law offices. Our family law attorneys are experienced in the following areas, either as your counsel or as the neutral mediator:

ADR may be your first step to resolve your dispute, or it may be the last attempt to reach a resolution before trial. Interested in learning more about Andalman & Flynn’s ADR services? Please contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Collaborative Law, Mediation & Arbitration in Rockville, MD

While there are a number of types of alternative dispute resolution, two that are commonly seen are mediation and arbitration.

Collaborative Law

Collaborative law involves a cooperative, voluntary, team-based process to resolve family disputes without the need to go to court. With the help of professionals in various disciplines, parties work together to create shared solutions to the dispute.

It’s most often used to resolve issues related to divorce and other family matters such as premarital agreements, property division, alimony, child support, and child custody matters. This form of negotiation allows both parties resolve their legal differences through negotiation and compromise.

Mediation

Mediation is the process through which you and your spouse or child’s other parent negotiate the terms of an agreement with the guidance of an objective mediator. Issues that are typically resolved through mediation are parenting plans, child support, property division, and alimony.

During mediation, both you and your spouse have the opportunity to speak. Your neutral mediator will keep the conversation on track, re-frame the issues when necessary, and facilitate communication. The mediator does not make any decisions or decide who is right or wrong.

Once you and your spouse or child’s other parent come to an agreement, the mediator drafts the agreement for review by you and your attorneys. If it is entirely agreed upon, the resolution is provided to the judge for approval.

Arbitration

When mediation is not the right process for you and your family, but you want to avoid a formal court setting, arbitration may be the appropriate ADR method to use during this time.

During arbitration for a family matter, you and the other party present your side of the situation to a neutral arbitrator. This is far more similar to a court trial than to mediation.

Each of you may present witnesses, your own testimony, and other evidence supporting your preferred resolution. The arbitrator then makes a final decision, which is submitted to the court. An arbitrator’s decision is binding and can only be appealed in certain situations and within a certain period of time.

Benefits of ADR

There are a number of advantages to ADR, including:

  • Retaining more control over the matter
  • Creating a custom solution
  • Resolving the matter faster
  • Resolving the matter in a cost-effective way
  • Reducing emotional trauma, particularly to children
  • Avoiding damage to important personal relationships

Contact Andalman & Flynn for ADR

Contact us today by calling (301) 563-6685 to schedule an initial consultation with our divorce mediation attorneys.

Schedule a Consultation

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Testimonials

Client Testimonial – Thoughtful Legal Guidance

“I am writing to tell you how very pleased I am with the care and attention that I received from the law firm of Andalman and Flynn. From the outset, I was impressed by the organization of the office, and the thoughtful legal guidance that I received in the areas of family law and landlord-tenant issues. My attorney, Peter Casciano, met with me when I was a walk-in client in distress. He immediately directed me to several public agencies of which I had need, and advised me in the process of becoming a client of the firm. His advice and understanding, on such short notice, was much needed and greatly

Client Testimonial – I couldn’t be happier with the result that I got

“I was recommended to Ms Vann from a friend of mine. I couldn’t be happier with the result that I got. I was dealing with custody and financial support issues with the mother of my twin boys and trying in vain to do the right thing by myself. Working with Ms Vann relieved so much of the stress that I was going through. It is about six months since my case was closed and things are still going really well. I only wish that I had contacted her sooner!”