This month, we have been discussing the different circumstances in which a mediator will either suspend or terminate the mediation process—both for the good of the parties involved and for the reputation of the mediator. A few of the common reasons that mediation must be stopped involve threats that are made by one of the involved parties either outside of or during the mediation sessions.
Here are just a few examples of threats that could bring the mediation process to a halt:
- A party threatens physical violence against the other party.
- A party threatens the mediator.
- A party threatens to abduct a child or children during child custody mediation.
- A party makes threats in order to secure the settlement they wish to secure.
- A party makes threats to harm themselves or others.
What happens if someone threatens the safety of someone else during a mediation session? In the vast majority of cases, the mediator will stop the session at least temporarily to confront the issue. In some cases, police and other authorities may be informed of the threats by the mediator because they are obligated under the law or because they feel that it is the right thing to do.
Mediation is designed to help couples come to a peaceful and fair divorce settlement—but it assumes that both parties involved accept the process and respect others. If you are considering mediation for your family law issue, contact a Bellevue mediation attorney today at the Law Offices of Molly B. Kenny: 425-460-0550.
