Mediation for Unmarried Partners in New York

Buffalo attorney assists couples seeking clarity on financial issues and other matters

There are many reasons why people in a committed relationship might choose not to get married. Regardless of whether they ever wed or not, individuals who have chosen to share their lives must address serious issues that occasionally lead to conflict. Cohabitating creates strong financial ties and two people who have a child together will have a common bond even if they move on to different romantic partners. At Law Offices of Randy S. Margulis & Associates, we understand that, while unmarried partners are not required to go through the legal marriage or divorce process, they often benefit from a family law mediator. Attorney Alexandra Rockwood is a certified mediator who also has a Master’s Degree in Social Work. She helps unmarried partners throughout the Buffalo area forge agreements that bolster their relationship as well as reach settlements when they decide to go their separate ways.

Developing agreements for individuals in a committed relationship

More couples than ever now see the benefit of prenuptial agreements when they are about to get married. Setting clear, enforceable terms regarding financial issues helps both parties gain a clear understanding about financial matters and avert the possibility of drawn-out litigation over issues such as maintenance and property division should the marriage end in divorce. Using mediation to develop an agreement might even be more important for unmarried partners. Individuals in a long-term relationship frequently acquire property together and sometimes choose to have children. However, without a legal marriage, someone could devote their effort and income to building a home for many years and wind up with very little to show for it.

Alexandra Rockwood conducts mediations in order to help unmarried partners safeguard their financial interests and establish provisions relating to other issues, such as inheritance rights and hospital visits. These matters are particularly important if the parties have children together or from other relationships. We know that it can be tough to start the conversation about negotiating a legal document, but Ms. Rockwood’s experience as both an attorney and in the social work field gives partners the chance to address key concerns in an open, friendly, private environment.

Mediation for when a nonmarital relationship ends

Some unmarried couples spend years together, then are at loss when they decide to go their separate ways because there is no formal legal process to end their relationship. When the parties are co-parents, then custody, visitation and child support terms must be established and incorporated into an order. Our firm strives to develop effective parenting plans through mediation so both parents can be comfortable with issues relating to legal custody and residence. You can also count on us to promote healthy negotiation on issues such as who will retain the home shared by partners, the division of jointly purchased assets and payments that might be warranted if one individual relied on the other’s income.

Speak with a Buffalo attorney regarding mediation for unmarried partners

The Law Offices of Randy S. Margulis & Associates conducts mediations for unmarried partners in Western New York who are looking to reach agreement on financial and/or parenting terms. To schedule a consultation about your particular circumstances, please call 716-886-9600 or contact us online. We are located in Williamsville and downtown Buffalo.