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FINANCES and MONEY MANAGEMENT

Financial problems are among the leading causes of divorce and relationship breakups. Unemployment, insufficient income, over-spending, and lack of self-discipline are common causes of most financial problems today. The results are strained relationships, potential bankruptcy, and feelings of failure and frustration. A solution is ACCORD’s exclusive MoneyWorks Plan™ in which mediation is used to help couples create plan to get out of debt and begin building their assets. ACCORD’s network of financial professionals are available to our clients who want to begin taking charge of their financial circumstances in order to rebuild financial stability and security.

CHILD CUSTODY, VISITATION and CHILD SUPPORT

When facing the ending of a relationship, it is imperative to prioritize the needs of the children before the needs of the parents. In an article written by Carolyn Bryson, "Mom, Dad: Are You Getting a Divorce?" she offers parents suggestions about how to help children transition and how to parent children residing in separate households.

Mediation is used to help families reach agreements about decision-making authority concerning when the children will reside with each parent, as well as how the children will share the holidays with each parent. Arrangements such as child support, daycare, summer camp, costs of medical insurance, uninsured medical expenses, and negotiated child tax exemptions and head of household are typical discussions that are including in the separation agreement.

INTERPERSONAL CONFLICTS

Conflicts are the result of how individuals communicate and interpret messages exchanged with one another. Most people are afraid of conflict, and either avoid it or are confrontational. However, conflict can lead to very positive and rewarding outcomes. Mediation is a process in which a professional helps people convey their needs and desires in a way that can be heard and acted upon. It is a process that helps to preserve relationships while providing individuals with an opportunity to learn more effective communication skills.

STEPFAMILIES and UNMARRIED PARENTS

Today's demanding lifestyles and complex culture causes incredible stress on the family unit. Misunderstandings and communication problems are common complaints among family members. Mediation can be a process for families to find solutions to all types of issues, such as:

     •   Co-parenting issues, including blended families and stepparenting
     •   Grandparents having authority to make parenting decisions
     •   Extended family visitation schedules
     •   Children with special needs
     •   Child behaviors, truancy and discipline
     •   Family finances, credit card and household budget

The following links may offer some additional information for your particular situation:

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

Marriage Encounters of Rochester

Assisting Children in Transition (ACT)

Equal Rights for Fathers