Raleigh, N.C. (FEBRUARY 13, 2015) – Lynn Wilson McNally, a partner and board-certified family law specialist with the Raleigh-based law firm of Smith Debnam, has received her mediation certification from the North Carolina Dispute Resolution Commission and is now certified to conduct mediations of equitable distribution and other family law financial cases in North Carolina district court actions.
Unlike non-certified family law mediators who have limited capabilities in what they can mediate, certified family law mediators can mediate all family law disputes, including those that have been filed with the Court. To be considered for certification, the Dispute Resolution Commission requires that applicants complete a 40-hour training in family mediation and observe two family mediations. In addition, attorney applicants must be a member in good standing with the North Carolina State Bar, have at least five years experience, and demonstrate good moral character and an understanding of NC family law.
“Mediation often enables divorcing couples to maintain control over the outcome because it promotes working together to try and reach some mutually beneficial resolution,” added McNally. “As a mediator, job one is helping people find common ground. In order to do that well, you have to be solution-oriented, with a strong ability to listen intently and think creatively.”
McNally joined Smith Debnam in 2003 and focuses her practice in all areas of family law, including separation, divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, equitable distribution, domestic violence, termination of parental rights, and legitimation. She earned her J.D. from Campbell University School of Law and her B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is active in the Family Law sections of the North Carolina Bar Association and Wake County Bar Association, as well as the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and the Leadership Raleigh Alumni Association. McNally serves at a local non-profit agency by volunteering and providing pro bono legal assistance.
About Smith Debnam
Founded in 1972, Smith Debnam is the law firm of choice for clients who value a responsible and caring approach from an experienced team. Headquartered in Raleigh, NC, the firm has extensive experience in state and federal courts across a diverse list of practice areas, including Family Law, Elder Law & Advocacy Services, Estate Planning & Administration, Professional Negligence, Corporate and Business Law, Business Litigation, Commercial Bankruptcy and Reorganization, Foreclosures, Creditor Representation, Collections, Commercial & Residential Real Estate, Construction Law, Employment Law, and Equipment Leasing & Finance.
