When you’re going through a divorce, there is a tendency to have conflicts here and there. Even an uncontested divorce may have some unresolved issues that need to be addressed. Some people believe allowing a judge to decide is a good way to move forward, but there are other options.
One of those options is mediation.
1. They take less time
Mediation is beneficial in cases where you have arguments, because they actually take less time. Working with a mediator can help you resolve conflicts quickly instead of waiting through months of delays by filing a lawsuit.
2. They are confidential
Any time you go to court, the things that happen there generally become public knowledge. Anyone can look up what you did in court, the decisions made by the court and other personal information. Mediation sessions are confidential, which is especially important if there are things you don’t want others to know about your divorce.
3. They help reduce conflict in order to protect relationships
When you fight with your spouse, it hurts your relationship. Instead of fighting, mediation helps you sit down together and work through your problems. When things become heated, the mediator can step in and allow you both to calm down while explaining laws or facts that could impact your case. This gives you more information while also making sure you both know what will happen if you make one decision or another.
4. They cost less
Mediation tends to cost less than dragging out a divorce. Mediators generally charge less than attorneys, and they can help you create the documents you need, like parenting plans or settlements, that your attorney can then submit to the court for you. Not making a judge or jury decide your case saves you money in the long term.
5. They result in better compliance
If you come up with a settlement with your spouse that you both agree to, it’s more likely that you’ll both adhere to that agreement. This is the most beneficial part of a mediation session for many, because there is less ongoing stress once the settlement is finalized.
Your attorney can help you submit your documents to the court after you complete mediation. With the right mediation support, you can get through any disagreement.
