Dispute Resolution
Anderson & Voyich attorneys are committed to helping you. We strive to find out-of-court resolution whenever possible and remain one of Montana’s premier legal firms certified in Collaborative Law and Arbitration. Learn more about the resolution options we can explore together below.
MEDIATION
Mediation is a simple and effective alternative dispute resolution method which strives to promote future relationships and the long-term interests of the participants, by working with the parties to help formulate a mutually agreeable path forward.
FAMILY LAW ARBITRATION
Arbitration is an alternative to a “traditional” court room setting. The process utilizes a mutually agreed upon Arbitrator who will act as the decision maker for the issues presented. The process is private and frequently quicker than relying upon the judiciary.
COLLABORATIVE LAW / DIVORCE
Collaborative law is an alternative method of resolving disputes whereby the parties agree to remove the matter from the courtroom setting and engage in a process of problem-solving with a team of professionals to assist the parties in reaching resolution without a judge as the decision maker.
“Our experience has shown that so many disputes can be solved with out-of-court resolution. When possible, we pursue solving cases through mediation, collaboration, and arbitration. When circumstances require court litigation, we work towards the most realistic and optimal outcome for your case.”
Anderson & Voyich are certified Family Arbitrators for Montana
Family cases remain one of the largest types of legal filings in the state. In 2021, with the passing of the Family Law Arbitration Act, Montanans have another option available to for family disputes which does not require the appointment of a judge. By using a certified Family Law Arbitrator, like the attorneys at Anderson & Voyich, families can work to quickly resolve disputes without litigation but still with a trained professional who can render binding decisions.
How do I know if Family Law arbitration is a good fit for me?
An experienced team that values Collaborative Law
The approval of Collaboration Law as a practice passed in 2015 as an available alternative solution for Montana families. For those who want to commit to a solution avoiding litigation and working together to find long term solutions, Collaborative Law is an ideal choice. With a process that follows structured meeting agendas to discuss the needs and wants from each party, Collaborative Law is an option that gives participants more opportunity for discussion, allows them to handle conflict with integrity, and most often results in an outcome the family most desires.
“If you want to have a constructive, or even an amicable relationship when it’s said and done, you should really be looking at the collaborative process.” -Kellie
What Collaborative Law Involves
Both parties retain attorneys, who are trained in the collaborative process, to help them settle the dispute. Sessions take place in private meetings, not courtrooms, and discussions are tailored to meet the individual needs of the parties and any involved children.
A financial planner and a mental health facilitator are often involved as part of the professional team.
The approach is to not assess blame for problems, but to focus on finding solutions which best fit the competing and shared interests of the parties, and children.
Collaborative Law is often more cost-effective, and frequently much quicker, than traditional divorce, allowing parties to invest directly in the final outcome rather than costly courtroom disputes.
The collaborative process is private and not open to public hearings, unlike many courtroom proceedings where anyone may watch.
Parties who participate in the Collaborative Process recognize the importance of protecting their children from the harm that litigation can impose, and further recognize the goal of having positive future relationships.
“Collaborative Law is often a process that is less expensive, if it is successful, than going to a trial. By and large, I would recommend this to most family cases.” - Kellie