Mediation is a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution. The purpose of mediation is to have the parties reach an agreement through the intervention of a "facilitator" or mediator. A mediator does not give advice to the parties, but "facilitates" an agreement "acceptable" to the parties.

While Parties can and often do seek mediation without consulting an attorney, this may result in one or both of the parties arriving at an agreement without being fully apprised of their rights and obligations or having full disclosure with respect to marital assets and income.

The partners of Phipps, Geis & Brach are all experienced mediators and recommend that any party have legal advice before entering mediation. In much of South Carolina it is necessary for the parties to attempt a resolution through mediation before receiving a trial on a marital dissolution case in Family Court.