Family Law Mediation in Louisiana: A Smarter, Calmer Way Forward

Dreading a courtroom showdown over your kids, your home, your future?

You’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. In Northwest Louisiana, families are discovering a better path through divorce and custody issues: mediation.

At Johnson Carroll Law, we help families from Caddo, DeSoto, Sabine, Natchitoches, Bossier, Webster, Bienville, Claiborne, and Red River parishes avoid the chaos of court and move forward with clarity, peace, and power.

Cindy Carroll expertly guides a couple through the mediation process, creating understanding and clarity during a challenging family dispute.

What Is Mediation?

Mediation is a structured, peaceful way to resolve family disputes—without stepping foot in a courtroom.

You and the other party sit down with a neutral, trained mediator who helps guide the conversation and keep things productive. Unlike a judge, a mediator doesn’t make decisions. You stay in control.

“Mediation allows families to settle disputes privately, without the nasty battles of traditional court.” – Johnson Carroll Law

Why Mediation Beats Court—Especially in Louisiana

Louisiana law (La. R.S. 9:332) strongly encourages mediation in custody cases—and for good reason. Here’s what mediation offers that the courtroom can’t:

• Privacy: No public court drama—your story stays your own.

• Cost Savings: Mediation is often 40% to 60% cheaper than litigation.

• Faster Resolutions: Most issues are resolved in 3 to 5 sessions.

• Emotional Control: You avoid the stress and unpredictability of a judge’s ruling.

• Empowerment: You shape your own future, not some stranger in robes.

What the Law Says: Who Can Be a Mediator in Louisiana?

According to La. R.S. 9:334, Louisiana mediators in family law must meet specific qualifications:

• Four-year college degree

• 40 hours of general mediation training

• 20 additional hours focused on child custody and visitation

In other words, this isn’t just a conversation. It’s a legally supported tool for transformation.

The True Benefits of Mediation—Beyond the Basics

Emotional & Family Benefits:

• Fewer future conflicts

• Better communication between parents

• Protection of children’s mental health

Practical & Legal Benefits:

• More detailed and customized parenting plans

• Faster turnaround than court timelines

• Major reduction in legal fees

• 60% less chance of going back to court for future disputes

“Mediation helps families communicate better—during and after disputes.” – Louisiana Bar Journal

Why Johnson Carroll Law?

Let’s cut through the fluff. When you work with us, here’s what you get:

Two Lawyers

We bring two seasoned attorneys—Cindy and Ginger—to the table. That’s double the insight, double the strategy, and double the support.

Mediation That’s Actually Practical

We keep it real. We guide you through the process, not around it, and make sure the outcome makes sense for you and your kids—not just the paperwork.

Clear Communication

You’re never left wondering what’s going on. We talk. We text. We listen. You stay informed.

“We always say: You get two legal minds for the price of one.”

Real-Life Mediation Win: The Shreveport Family That Said “No” to Court

A couple from Shreveport came to us on the edge—arguments, legal threats, total breakdown in communication. In just three sessions, we helped them reach a shared custody plan and property agreement.

No court hearings. No public fight. No drama. Just peace.

Common Questions About Mediation (Quick Answers)

Is mediation legally binding?

Yes—once the agreement is filed and signed by a judge, it’s enforceable like any court order.

What if we can’t agree on anything?

That’s why we’re here. Mediators are trained to work through even high-conflict situations.

How long does it take?

Most cases wrap in 3–5 sessions, often over just a few weeks.

Proven Success in Louisiana

• 70–80% of cases resolved successfully through mediation

• Over 75% satisfaction among families who mediate

• 90% settle in fewer than five sessions

• 60% less likely to go back to court later

What's your biggest reason for considering mediation?

• Saving time and money
• Reducing stress and emotional conflict
• Keeping my family matters private
• Having more control over the outcome

You can vote for more than one answer.

Take the First Step—Without Stepping Into Court

If you’re facing a divorce, custody fight, or co-parenting crisis, don’t go to war.

Let us help you build something better.

📞 Call Johnson Carroll Law today to schedule your mediation consultation.

We’ll help you navigate the hard stuff—with strength, clarity, and heart.

Sources:

1. Louisiana Revised Statute 9:332

2. Louisiana Revised Statute 9:334

3. Louisiana Bar Journal, “Family and Divorce Mediation”

4. Johnson Carroll Law Mediation Series Transcript

5. Local court practices in NW Louisiana (Caddo, Bossier, etc.)