Empowering

The People Of Georgia For Over 30 Years

Mediated Divorce

Eric Ballinger Is A Certified Mediator In Cherokee, Cobb, Pickens, Gilmer And Forsyth Counties

Mediation is fast becoming the resolution method of choice in numerous Georgia family law matters — especially divorce. Many Georgia counties now require divorcing couples to make a good-faith effort at settling their issues through mediation before bringing a case to court. If mediation does not work, trial is always an option.

It is best to have a mediator who understands the judges and how they rule in any particular situation. Attorney Eric A. Ballinger has practiced family law before the judges in Cherokee, Cobb, Pickens, Gilmer and Forsyth counties for 18 years. He is familiar with how these judges rule in a wide variety of cases and can offer insight that may help bring your matter to a resolution. His training and experience, both in the courtroom and at the mediation table, help bring parties together for an effective resolution.

By guiding clients toward mediation, we give them the opportunity to develop a customized settlement agreement that meets their needs without direct court interference. A mediated divorce offers an amicable discussion that keeps stress and the cost of divorce to a minimum.

The benefits of mediation include:

  • Fair and neutral grounds for discussion
  • Saving time and money
  • Confidentiality
  • Avoiding litigation
  • Improving communication between parties
  • Providing opportunities to develop creative solutions

A Trained Guardian Ad Litem Can Help

Cases involving children often need an advocate in the courtroom who will look after their interests. If parents can’t come to an agreement on care and custody or if one parent is accused of being unfit, a guardian ad litem will be appointed to ensure the child’s best interests are represented. A guardian ad litem can thoroughly investigate the situation and represent the best interests of the child in court.

As a trained and certified guardian ad litem and a parent, Eric A. Ballinger is called upon countless times to look out for the interests of children. He will conduct an independent and thorough investigation to determine what is in the best interest of the child and present those findings and recommendations to the court. An investigation can include:

  • Home visits
  • Individual consultations with clients
  • Consultations with parents and their attorneys
  • Interviews with character witnesses, care providers, health care professionals and teachers
  • Review of relevant medical records, school records and visitation records
  • School visits
  • Meeting with the children

Often the court will choose the guardian ad litem without any input from the attorneys. If the court offers the opportunity to choose, it is important to choose an attorney who has experience with the judge, who will do a thorough investigation and who has a solid reputation with the court and the community.

If you want a low-conflict and affordable solution for divorce, you should contact the Law Office of Eric A. Ballinger. Call us at 770-479-2020 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday or contact us online.