Family Court Mediator

Litigation is Expensive. Mediation is Affordable.

In Horry County, South Carolina all contested Family Court cases are required to be mediated. Contested divorces and other Family Court matters are expensive, stressful, and last longer than most people care to tolerate. Although Family Court Mediation may not be required in other counties, it is a better alternative to contested litigation and is encouraged. This is because the primary goal of mediation is to help the parties reach an agreement on such issues as custody of minor children, visitation and support, spousal support, division of property, and any other issues concerning the parties.

A mediator is a neutral person who does not discern who is to “blame” for the failure of the marriage or determines who is “right” or “wrong.” And neither does a mediator act the role of a judge making the decisions for the parties but rather helps them to make their own decisions. Mediation allows the parties to customize their agreements to suit their family’s values and needs and often allows the parties to work towards friendly relationships when children are involved.

Attorney Regina Ward is a Certified Family Court Mediator who helps people reach agreements about their contested divorces, child custody and visitation issues, support, and division of marital property. Attorney Regina Ward has been appointed by the Family Court to mediate contested issues and she helps parties who take the initiative to participate in mediation voluntarily. Although Ms. Ward is an attorney she does not represent either party in mediation but considers what is important to both sides and the best interests of the children in helping the parties to reach an agreement. Because mediation is a confidential process Ms. Ward cannot, without permission, disclose confidential statements to the other party. This allows the parties to be open and honest about what concerns them the most. Additionally, under the rules of mediation Ms. Ward cannot be called as a witness to testify for either party about information she may have gained during mediation.

Mediation FAQ

Do I need a lawyer to go with me to mediation?
No. However, it is wise to at least consult with a lawyer prior to going to mediation so that you are advised of your legal rights so you can make informed decisions in reaching an agreement.

Does the mediator meet with the parties together?
Although Ms. Ward may start the mediation process in the same room, often times the parties will be separated and she will go from room to room delivering offers and negotiations.

How much does mediation cost?
When a case has been ordered to participate in mediation, the Family Court appointed mediator cannot charge more than $175.00 per hour plus administrative fees. It is customary practice that the parties equally divide the mediator’s bill unless they have agreed one person will be responsible for the entire bill. Most cases take about three hours to mediate and the anticipated fees are usually paid in full on the day of mediation.

How long does mediation take?
It is mandatory that court-ordered mediation be scheduled for no less than three hours. However, mediation can take longer than three hours or at the request of voluntary participants may be held on several days in a series of sessions. As long as the parties are making a good faith effort to resolve their differences and they are making progress, Ms. Ward will continue mediating until the parties reach an agreement. If the conference takes more than three hours, the parties are expected to pay the additional charge at the end of the conference.

Where can I get more information?
Please review the rules and information at http://www.judicial.state.sc.us/courtReg/indexADR.cfm

How do I get started?
Call Attorney Regina Ward’s law office and schedule an appointment for mediation. After you have an appointment, Ms. Ward’s staff will mail an information packet and forms that must be completed and returned prior to the mediation conference.