From million-dollar divorces to individuals charged with crimes, for 17 years, Nicole Saia has represented clients in more than 875 cases in various Alabama and federal court systems.
“I’ve had the pleasure of representing individuals from all walks of life and have recognized a commonality in that the legal system can be overwhelming. That’s why I’m passionate about being certain my clients fully understand what the law states, what their options are and what the risks are,” Saia said.
Since beginning her law career in 2001, she has litigated cases in various Alabama and federal court systems, including juvenile and municipal courts of Alabama, district civil, district criminal, circuit civil, circuit criminal and federal courts.
“This has allowed me to become very familiar with the litigation and local courts. But my favorite moments in my career are when I can introduce a different perspective on resolving disputes and legal issues through mediation,” she said.
Saia has practiced law since 2001, opened her own firm in 2005 and became a certified mediator with the state of Alabama in 2011. Initially completing the certification simply to offer her clients an additional service, the experienced attorney has frequently found mediation to be a more efficient and productive option than court proceedings.
“The primary benefit of mediation is that the individuals are involved in the resolution, as opposed to a judge who you’ve known for a few hours deciding your future. The decision impacts your life, your kids, your assets and more. Either you can be involved in the outcome or let a virtual stranger decide,” she said.
In mediation, the parties agree upon the selected mediator, who then works for and with those involved to develop a resolution all will support. On the other hand, an attorney’s role is to fight for their individual client’s benefit with disregard to any opposing party’s perspective.
In addition to having a higher compliance rate than decisions handed down in court, mediation allows documentation to be kept confidential. Only the written resolution will be presented to a judge for approval and becomes attached to a court order, which is then a matter of public record. But there are no public transcripts or sensitive documents showcasing client’s problems, if people do not have a trial.
“Another benefit of mediation is that there is time for creative problem solving. For example, there may be a divorce involving custody where a parent who works nights and weekends. But she/he still needs to see their kids,” Saia said.
Divorce cases can involve custody, child support, division of assets and wealth, and they often include colorful exchanges between hurt parties. If handled through open court, all is captured in a public transcript for anyone to potentially read one day.
“Divorce is such a complexity of logistics and emotions. The feelings that clients are working through can understandably do a disservice at the negotiating table. I support my clients by focusing on the tangibles so they can focus on other needs,” Saia said. “When mediation is not successful, I am always prepared to represent my clients at trial.”
► WHERE: 4000 Eagle Point Corporate Drive
► CALL: 960-4660
► WEBSITE: nicolesaia.com
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