Christian Conciliation|
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| Christian Conciliation |
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In addition to conducting traditional mediations and arbitrations, many of the firm’s attorneys conduct mediations and arbitrations utilizing the Rules of Procedure for Christian Conciliation of The Institute for Christian Conciliation. Conciliation, while similar in many respects to traditional alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, differs in its focus on bringing about both substantive resolution and personal reconciliation. The ICC has conferred upon several of the firm’s attorneys the designation of Certified Christian Conciliator™, reflecting the substantial additional training and experience these attorneys have in this area. The attorneys in this practice area not only serve as mediators and arbitrators, but also represent clients who are parties to mediations and arbitrations conducted pursuant to ICC rules. Virtually any type of dispute can be handled through conciliation, including the following:
Additional information on Christian Conciliation and a copy of the Rules of Procedure for Christian Conciliation can be found at the web site for Peacemaker Ministries, the ICC’s parent organization. One document which you may find particularly helpful is called “Introduction/ FAQ's for Christian Conciliation”. For more detailed information on conciliation, please read the law review article on this topic written by one of the firm’s attorneys. In the divorce mediation context, the firm’s attorneys who conduct conciliations have established certain conditions, including: (1) at least one party to the mediation must earnestly desire to reconcile the marriage; (2) both parties must desire to be as reconciled as possible (although one of the parties may not believe reconciling the marriage is possible or desirable); and (3) the parties’ church must not object to the firm’s attorney conducting the divorce mediation. The mediator will first seek to promote reconciliation of the marriage and, if the parties are unable to reconcile, will work with them to reach an amicable resolution on such issues as child custody, property division and alimony. It is our belief that an amicable resolution of these issues, as compared to a bitter dispute over them, is in the best interest of the couple’s children and leaves room for future reconciliation of the marriage. For answers to questions you may have about divorce mediation, please contact Glenn Waddell at (205)874-0373. The firm’s attorneys typically charge an hourly fee, which is split among the parties. Because of the unique nature of church conflict interventions, the firm typically establishes a fixed fee and schedule prior to undertaking this type of work. |
William A. Ratliff R. Dale Wallace |
