Mike Hulen is an experienced family law mediator. He has practiced family law for over 34 years, including almost 20 years in Colorado. (Moved here from his native Arkansas in 1988). Mike strongly believes in mediation as a process which can save thousands of dollars in attorney's fees and litigation costs, provide a fair resolution of all issues (including parenting time, property division and financial issues) and allow the parties to much more promptly conclude the emotion laden divorce process, while crafting their own agreement - rather than leaving it to the Court in a Permanent Orders hearing, which may extend matters for months and result in decisions neither party wanted.
Most Courts require that parties participate in mediation prior to setting Permanent Orders (final) hearing. While such participation is usually mandatory, the mediator has no power to issue orders or force agreement on any issue. Each party must be willing to work together in the spirit of good faith and reasonable compromise. Parties wishing to participate in mediation may either be represented by attorneys at the mediation session or may appear by themselves.
Mike Hulen has served as a family law mediator on many occasions and has also represented clients in mediation sessions. Mediation is a cooperative process which usually results in a savings to both parties of thousands of dollars in attorney's fees and costs, and which usually results in a much earlier resolution of the case than proceeding to a Permanent Orders hearing. It also places in the hands of the parties much more control over the important decisions that must be made regarding children, support, maintenance, property, and other financial issues. Mediation substantially contributes to lessening stress and hard feelings against the other party. Cooperation between the parties/parents also means less emotional burden for the children.
Call Hulen & Leutwyler for a free consultation to discuss how mediation may help you.
