Los Angeles Trust Mediation Attorney

Helping Families Resolve Trust Disputes in California

When a loved one passes away, the last thing you want to do is fight with your family members over the terms of the trust. Unfortunately, trust disputes are all too common, and they can tear families apart. If you are involved in a trust dispute, you may be able to avoid litigation by participating in trust mediation.

At the Law Offices of David A. Shapiro, we understand how difficult it can be to resolve trust disputes. We also know that trust litigation can be expensive and time-consuming. That is why we offer trust mediation services to clients in Los Angeles and throughout California. Our goal is to help you and your family members resolve your trust dispute as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

Do you need help resolving a trust dispute? Contact the Law Offices of David A. Shapiro at (310) 853-1554 to schedule a consultation with our Los Angeles trust mediation lawyer.

Understanding Trust Mediation

Trust mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that is designed to help parties resolve their differences outside of court. In a trust mediation, the parties meet with a neutral third party, known as a mediator, who helps them work through their issues and reach a mutually agreeable solution.

Unlike a judge, a mediator does not have the power to make decisions for the parties. Instead, the mediator’s role is to facilitate communication and help the parties find common ground. The mediator will not take sides or advocate for one party over the other. Instead, the mediator will help the parties identify their interests and explore possible solutions.

Trust mediation is a voluntary process, which means that the parties can choose to end the mediation at any time. However, if the parties are able to reach an agreement, the mediator will help them draft a settlement agreement. Once the agreement is signed, it is legally binding and enforceable in court.

Benefits of Trust Mediation

Trust mediation offers several benefits over traditional litigation. First and foremost, trust mediation is generally faster and less expensive than going to court. In a trust mediation, the parties can work at their own pace and schedule the mediation at a time that is convenient for everyone. In contrast, trust litigation can take months or even years to resolve, and the parties have no control over the court’s schedule.

Trust mediation is also less adversarial than litigation. In a trust mediation, the parties work together to find a solution that is acceptable to everyone. Trust litigation is an adversarial process in which each party tries to convince the judge that they are right and the other party is wrong.

Finally, trust mediation is a private process. In a trust mediation, the parties meet in a private office and discuss their issues in a confidential setting. Litigating in court is a public process in which the parties’ dirty laundry is aired in open court.

How Trust Mediation Works

Trust mediation typically begins with an opening session in which the mediator explains the mediation process and sets the ground rules. The mediator will also ask each party to explain their side of the story and what they hope to achieve through the mediation.

After the opening session, the parties will move to separate rooms, and the mediator will meet with each party privately. During these private sessions, the mediator will help the parties identify their interests and explore possible solutions. The mediator will also help the parties evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their case and develop a negotiation strategy.

Once the parties have had a chance to meet privately with the mediator, the mediator will begin shuttling back and forth between the rooms, relaying offers and counteroffers. The mediator will also help the parties communicate with each other and work through any disagreements.

If the parties are able to reach an agreement, the mediator will help them draft a settlement agreement. Once the agreement is signed, it is legally binding and enforceable in court. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the mediation will end, and the parties will have to decide whether to pursue their claims in court.

Choosing a Trust Mediator

Not all mediators are created equal. If you are considering participating in a trust mediation, it is important to choose a mediator who is experienced in trust and estate law. An experienced trust mediator will be familiar with the issues that are likely to arise in your case and will be able to help you and your family members work through your differences.

At the Law Offices of David A. Shapiro, we have extensive experience mediating trust disputes. We understand how difficult it can be to resolve trust disputes, and we know how to help you and your family members find common ground. When you work with us, we will take the time to understand your needs and goals, and we will help you develop a strategy that is designed to achieve the best possible outcome.

Get Started with a Consultation

If you are involved in a trust dispute, you may be able to avoid litigation by participating in trust mediation. At the Law Offices of David A. Shapiro, we offer trust mediation services to clients in Los Angeles and throughout California. Our goal is to help you and your family members resolve your trust dispute as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our Los Angeles trust mediation lawyer.

Call (310) 853-1554 or contact us online to get started with a consultation.