Minnesota Alternative Dispute Resolution Services

Twin Cities Family Law Attorney and Arbitrator
Michael C. Black

Sometimes parties involved in a family law dispute cannot mediate an issue, but still want an alternative to court. There are alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods available, including arbitration.

I'm attorney Michael C. Black. Over the course of my 31 year career as a divorce and family law lawyer, I have served as an arbitrator in several cases, making binding decisions regarding child custody and visitation, property division, child support, and other family law issues. When you need a more formal process to resolve a legal matter, my arbitration services may be the solution for you.

The Role of the Arbitrator

As an arbitrator, I only look at the facts of the case. I can interpret, clarify and address various circumstances of the family law issue, but I cannot advise parties on the best option for them. I make the decisions that the parties must follow.

For this reason, I prefer that parties at least attempt mediation before going into arbitration. This allows them to make their own decisions regarding important matters such as child custody and visitation.

The Arbitration Process

Sometimes families require arbitration to resolve their divorce or family law dispute. If this is true in your case, you and your attorney will attend a hearing that operates like a miniature trial.

During the arbitration hearing, the attorneys on each side present their case and ask questions of the other party and any necessary witnesses. Once the parties "rest their case," the arbitrator will make a decision and inform the parties of the result. This decision is binding and it serves as a court order.

Child Custody Arbitration

If you are interested in arbitration for your family law matter, please contact me online or call 651-222-2587 to schedule a consultation. I look forward to discussing this option with you and finding a solution that meets the needs of your family.