Divorce Mediation

Divorce Mediation Attorney in Jackson

Settlement-Oriented Guidance for Disputed Divorces

Divorce mediation gives spouses an opportunity to negotiate disputed terms without leaving every decision to the court. At Casey & Simmons, PLLC, we help clients evaluate possible settlements while preparing thoroughly for issues that may remain contested. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and litigators who pursue resolutions in or out of court.

With more than 40 years of combined legal experience, we understand that a workable settlement must reflect your priorities and the circumstances of your marriage. Attorney G. Michael Casey holds a 10.0 Superb Top Attorney rating from Avvo in divorce law.

Speak with a divorce mediation attorney about your circumstances and possible next steps. Call (731) 256-0023 to request a case evaluation.

Preparation for Settlement & Trial

Effective preparation begins before settlement terms are discussed. We use a systematic process to understand the dispute, identify your objectives, and prepare for the different directions the case could take.

Evaluation
We begin by listening to your circumstances and goals. That includes identifying the divorce issues that matter most to you and understanding where disagreements may affect settlement discussions.

Making a Plan
After evaluating the situation, we develop a strategy focused on your goals. The plan accounts for the issues under negotiation and the possibility that some terms may remain disputed.

Preparation
We thoroughly prepare every case as if it may proceed to trial. Mediation encourages negotiation, but careful preparation remains important when the parties don’t resolve every issue. This approach allows us to pursue settlement without treating litigation readiness as an afterthought.

Personal Attention Throughout a Disputed Divorce

Divorce decisions can affect finances, property, and parenting arrangements long after the legal process ends. We maintain open communication so you can make informed decisions about proposed terms. Instead of applying a generic answer, we develop a strategy around your family’s circumstances.

We serve clients in Jackson and throughout West and Middle Tennessee. During a case evaluation, you can explain the dispute, discuss your objectives, and learn how we may assist with divorce mediation or another contested divorce matter.

Discuss Your Divorce Goals with Our Attorneys

We bring a settlement-oriented approach to disputed divorce matters while remaining prepared for court when necessary. A focused evaluation can clarify the issues requiring negotiation and the preparation appropriate for your case.

Request a case evaluation with our Jackson divorce mediation lawyers by calling (731) 256-0023.

Tennessee Divorce Mediation Requirements

Under Tenn. Code § 36-4-131, Tennessee courts generally must order parties in divorce or separate-maintenance proceedings to participate in mediation unless an applicable exception supports waiving or extending the requirement. During this structured negotiation process, a neutral mediator helps the parties discuss possible agreements but doesn’t decide the divorce terms for them.

A court may waive or extend mediation when a party can’t afford it unless subsidized mediation is available. Other possible grounds include a written agreement resolving every issue, a prior court settlement conference, a likely impasse, or another sufficient cause accepted by the court.

Agreements That May Avoid Court-Ordered Mediation
The court won’t require mediation when the spouses have a properly executed Marital Dissolution Agreement and, when applicable, a properly executed parenting plan based on irreconcilable differences. A Marital Dissolution Agreement sets out the spouses’ agreed divorce terms for court approval.

Domestic Abuse Considerations
Additional safeguards apply when an order of protection is in effect or domestic abuse has been found by a court or resulted in a conviction. In those circumstances, mediation requires the victim’s agreement and a certified mediator with domestic-violence training. Whether mediation is appropriate must be assessed according to the specific facts and applicable court requirements.

Madison County Divorce Courts
Divorce and family-law matters arising in Jackson may be heard in Madison County Chancery Court, which shares family-law jurisdiction with the Circuit Court. Court procedures and case-specific orders can affect how mediation fits into a particular divorce.

Issues Addressed Through Divorce Mediation

Tennessee divorce mediation may address the financial and parenting terms that must be resolved before a divorce can be finalized. The subjects discussed depend on the marriage, the parties’ disagreements, and any existing court orders.

Common mediation topics include:

Child custody and parenting arrangements
Property division
Alimony
Child support

The Mediator’s Role

Under Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31, a Rule 31 Listed Mediator may help prepare a Memorandum of Understanding, which records the terms the parties agreed to during mediation. It documents their negotiated understanding but isn’t the legal paperwork submitted to the court.

Under current Rule 31, a Rule 31 Listed Mediator may help parties complete standard, court-approved forms such as the Marital Dissolution Agreement and parenting plan to memorialize their agreement, but can’t draft customized legal documents for court filing. When the parties have attorneys, their attorneys can prepare the filing documents after mediation. Facilitating negotiations and drafting legal documents for a client are separate roles.

Divorce Filing Fees & Mediation Costs

Divorce filing fees and mediator fees are separate expenses. Our divorce information states that Tennessee divorce filing fees can range from $184 to $301, depending on whether the case involves children or requires sheriff service of papers. That range applies to filing costs, not the mediator’s charges.

Mediator fees, their allocation between spouses, and available payment arrangements can vary. Tennessee law permits a court to waive or extend the mediation requirement when a party can’t afford mediation, unless mediation is subsidized. The court determines whether an exception applies based on the circumstances presented.

Possible Mediation Outcomes

Mediation may conclude with negotiated terms recorded in a Memorandum of Understanding, or some or all disputed terms may remain unresolved. Because the mediator doesn’t impose a result, an agreement depends on the parties accepting the proposed terms.

A divorce mediation lawyer can help you evaluate proposed terms in light of your goals and the broader divorce case. We prepare disputed matters carefully so settlement discussions take place with a clear understanding of the issues requiring resolution.

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"He fought for me and each time won my case. He was humble, understanding and compassionate."
After meeting him in person I knew he was who I wanted to represent me in a child custody case and later in an adoption case. He responses quickly, effectively and in a timely manner whenever I had a question. He fought for me and each time won my case.

- Ashley R.
"Don’t wait any longer if you need someone great, Mr. Bryant will definitely get the job done!"
First and foremost I want to start by saying how incredible Mr. Daniel Bryant has been for my family, especially my husband Caius. He has been my husband’s attorney for years and has helped him beat multiple cases even by getting them dismissed and expunged. We’re more than thankful for all the hard work he has done and would definitely recommend to anyone looking for an amazing attorney!!! Don’t wait any longer if you need someone great, Mr. Bryant will definitely get the job done!

- Raven B.
"I am extremely confident that the truth will continue to prevail with Mr. Casey on our side arguing for it."
Simply outstanding! Not only is my particular case extremely complex and emotionally taxing for both myself, AND everyone involved (including counsel), but Mr. Casey had literally HOURS to prepare for a crucial motion to be heard, as I hired him at 4 pm for a 9 am court date. This proved to be the best decision we could have ever made! His exemplary presentation of the truth, combined with his calm yet laser-focused attention to what was being presented from the other side was not only impressive but was also what resulted in me being able to spend very precious and valuable time with my daughter. While this case is not yet over, I am extremely confident that the truth will continue to prevail with Mr. Casey on our side arguing for it. Thank you, Mr. Casey!

- Daniel M.
"Mr. Bryant was caring, honest, and very professional throughout my entire case."
Hands down recommend Mr. Bryant for family law cases. Mr. Bryant was caring, honest, and very professional throughout my entire case. He is very responsive, confident, and truly dedicated to his work.

- Corinne A.
"Mr. Bryant has been the best attorney I have ever hired."
Mr. Bryant has been the best attorney I have ever hired. He handled my case in a very professional manner. And once it was over, I felt like a huge weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. If you need help in Clarksville, TN contact this law office!

- Mitch P.
"Mr. Daniel Bryant was absolutely one of the best lawyers I had..."
On my first time to deal with hiring a lawyer from overseas, I was scared and a little skeptical. Mr. Daniel Bryant was absolutely one of the best lawyers I had to deal with. Very professional, patient, clear on explaining things, quick on answering back beside the time difference, easy to work with, human and humble. I would highly reccomend him and definetely hire him again if needed, it is difficilt to find reliable lawyers.

- Micol
"Please choose wisely and call Mr. Casey today!!!"
My ex-wife got our Arkansas visitation changed from Arkansas to Tennessee. She was asking to reduce my visitation days and requesting an absurdly increased amount in child support. I contacted George Michael Casey for consultation. He was very professional, extremely knowledgeable of the law and his customer service is impeccable. Mr. Casey always returns calls and responds to emails promptly. His review of how the case would probably turn out was perfect. I actually got more visitation days and the increase in child support was minimal. If you do not utilize Mr. Casey's expert professional services then you are choosing the wrong attorney. Please choose wisely and call Mr. Casey today!!!

- William C.
"I was able to relax through the process, Kortney Simmons is the best!"
I was a nervous wreck simply considering divorce because of the horror stories I've heard. Kortney leveled the playing field, she was upfront and honest about the pros and cons but assured me she was interested in MY BEST INTEREST. Kortney's professionalism felt personal as if I were more than just a paying client. And because of that, I was able to relax through the process, Kortney Simmons is the best!

- Former Client

View All Reviews

What You'll Get

Here's our promise to every client:

Caring Counsel
At our firm, we understand that you are going through a difficult time. We will guide you through this process with compassion and experience.
Personalized Approach
We understand that every case is unique. Our firm provides personalized attention and unique strategies for each case in order to achieve the most favorable results.

Fierce Advocacy
When you work with our firm, you will have advocates on your side that are ready for any circumstances and are not afraid to take your case to trial to secure favorable results.
Decades of Experience
Our firm offers more than 40 years of combined legal experience to advocate for you. Each of our attorneys will bring their insight and to your case.

Client Reviews

Strongly Recommended by Clients & Colleagues

"He fought for me and each time won my case. He was humble, understanding and compassionate."
After meeting him in person I knew he was who I wanted to represent me in a child custody case and later in an adoption case. He responses quickly, effectively and in a timely manner whenever I had a question. He fought for me and each time won my case.

- Ashley R.
"Don’t wait any longer if you need someone great, Mr. Bryant will definitely get the job done!"
First and foremost I want to start by saying how incredible Mr. Daniel Bryant has been for my family, especially my husband Caius. He has been my husband’s attorney for years and has helped him beat multiple cases even by getting them dismissed and expunged. We’re more than thankful for all the hard work he has done and would definitely recommend to anyone looking for an amazing attorney!!! Don’t wait any longer if you need someone great, Mr. Bryant will definitely get the job done!

- Raven B.
"I am extremely confident that the truth will continue to prevail with Mr. Casey on our side arguing for it."
Simply outstanding! Not only is my particular case extremely complex and emotionally taxing for both myself, AND everyone involved (including counsel), but Mr. Casey had literally HOURS to prepare for a crucial motion to be heard, as I hired him at 4 pm for a 9 am court date. This proved to be the best decision we could have ever made! His exemplary presentation of the truth, combined with his calm yet laser-focused attention to what was being presented from the other side was not only impressive but was also what resulted in me being able to spend very precious and valuable time with my daughter. While this case is not yet over, I am extremely confident that the truth will continue to prevail with Mr. Casey on our side arguing for it. Thank you, Mr. Casey!

- Daniel M.
"Mr. Bryant was caring, honest, and very professional throughout my entire case."
Hands down recommend Mr. Bryant for family law cases. Mr. Bryant was caring, honest, and very professional throughout my entire case. He is very responsive, confident, and truly dedicated to his work.

- Corinne A.
"Mr. Bryant has been the best attorney I have ever hired."
Mr. Bryant has been the best attorney I have ever hired. He handled my case in a very professional manner. And once it was over, I felt like a huge weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. If you need help in Clarksville, TN contact this law office!

- Mitch P.
"Mr. Daniel Bryant was absolutely one of the best lawyers I had..."
On my first time to deal with hiring a lawyer from overseas, I was scared and a little skeptical. Mr. Daniel Bryant was absolutely one of the best lawyers I had to deal with. Very professional, patient, clear on explaining things, quick on answering back beside the time difference, easy to work with, human and humble. I would highly reccomend him and definetely hire him again if needed, it is difficilt to find reliable lawyers.

- Micol
"Please choose wisely and call Mr. Casey today!!!"
My ex-wife got our Arkansas visitation changed from Arkansas to Tennessee. She was asking to reduce my visitation days and requesting an absurdly increased amount in child support. I contacted George Michael Casey for consultation. He was very professional, extremely knowledgeable of the law and his customer service is impeccable. Mr. Casey always returns calls and responds to emails promptly. His review of how the case would probably turn out was perfect. I actually got more visitation days and the increase in child support was minimal. If you do not utilize Mr. Casey's expert professional services then you are choosing the wrong attorney. Please choose wisely and call Mr. Casey today!!!

- William C.
"I was able to relax through the process, Kortney Simmons is the best!"
I was a nervous wreck simply considering divorce because of the horror stories I've heard. Kortney leveled the playing field, she was upfront and honest about the pros and cons but assured me she was interested in MY BEST INTEREST. Kortney's professionalism felt personal as if I were more than just a paying client. And because of that, I was able to relax through the process, Kortney Simmons is the best!

- Former Client

View All Reviews

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