Hartford Mediation Lawyer

A Constructive Path to Resolving Family Law Matters 

Not every divorce, child custody case, or other family law matter must be resolved through the family court. Mediation offers a cooperative, solution-focused alternative that empowers individuals to resolve sensitive legal issues respectfully and cost-effectively. 

Attorney Kevin Emerson is professionally trained in mediation and brings over 30 years of experience in Connecticut family law to every case. He works with clients throughout Hartford, West Hartford, and surrounding areas to reach lasting agreements outside court. 

Discuss your case and options with our Hartford mediation attorney at the Law Firm of Kevin Emerson. Call (860) 750-9686 or reach us online to make a phone, in-person, or virtual appointment. 

Is Mediation Required in Connecticut Family Law Cases?

In many divorce and family law matters, the Connecticut courts encourage or require some form of alternative dispute resolution, including mediation. 

Mediation may be ordered in cases involving:

Interest-based mediation is the most common form in Connecticut. Its approach focuses on each party's underlying interests and needs rather than simply arguing over stated positions. Instead of framing the conflict as “who gets what,” interest-based mediation explores why each party wants a particular outcome. The goal is to find common ground and create solutions that address the most important priorities of both parties. 

For example, in a divorce or custody dispute, one parent might say, “I want sole custody,” but their underlying interest might be maintaining a strong daily relationship with their child. Interest-based mediation helps both sides articulate those deeper concerns—such as stability, financial security, parenting time, or peace of mind—and work toward mutually acceptable resolutions that reflect those goals.

How Mediation Works

Mediation is a confidential process in which a neutral third party, the mediator, facilitates discussions. Unlike a judge, the mediator does not make decisions or issue orders. Instead, they guide conversations, reduce conflict, clarify issues, and help the parties find common ground.

The process typically involves joint sessions to identify areas of disagreement, followed by more detailed discussions to explore potential solutions. Agreements reached through mediation can be formalized and submitted to the court for approval.

Attorney Kevin Emerson’s mediation training and decades of experience allow him to manage high-conflict and low-conflict cases with sensitivity, patience, and a practical mindset.

Mediation Benefits 

Mediation offers several benefits.

• Greater control: You and the other party decide, not a judge.
• Reduced conflict: The process promotes communication and collaboration rather than adversarial tactics.
• Confidentiality: Mediation is private and not part of the public court record.
• Cost savings: Mediation is often less expensive than prolonged litigation.
• Faster resolution: Many cases settle more quickly through mediation than traditional court proceedings.
• Better outcomes for children: Parents who resolve disputes cooperatively often co-parent more effectively after resolving the case.