When Mom or Dad, who was likely the glue that held the family together, is reaching the end stage of life, it’s pretty normal for sibling bickering and fighting to happen. Everyone is feeling lost, and old rivalries tend to respark. Whether the disagreements are over care or estate planning, it’s sad to see families falling apart when they really need to be coming together. Luckily, a sibling or family mediation is gaining popularity, and may be worth taking a closer look at if your family is having problems making decisions.
What a Mediator Does
A mediator will bring all of the involved parties together to discuss (and possibly vent and cry about) whatever decisions are unable to be agreed upon. If the elder parents are able, they may also be present. A lawyer or therapist that is a neutral party will play referee, and through a session or two hopefully help the family come to a resolution.
What a Mediator Does Not Do
A mediator will not force a decision on a family. They are merely a guide to help keep tempers at a minimum, and to play advocate for Mom or Dad when needed. They will not give an opinion or force anyone to get along. Instead, they attempt to help a family make it’s own decision that is in the best interest of the elder parent.
The Benefit of Mediation
If a family goes to court to settle guardianship or conservatorship, two things are likely to happen. First, someone is taking on quite a bit of legal fees, as court is not inexpensive. Second, family rifts turn into canyons that cannot be bridged. Mediation provides a cost effective way for everyone to say their piece, and hopefully resolve issues without the need for court.
