If you’re interested in divorce, it won’t be long before you turn your attention to mediation. This is the best way to resolve disputes during the divorce process, thus allowing you to move forward as quickly and efficiently as possible.
In mediation, a third party mediator helps both individuals resolve disputes associated with things such as child custody, child support and property division.
What are the goals of mediation?
Although no two people take the same approach to the divorce process, most share the same goals in regard to mediation:
- To create a divorce agreement that suits both individuals
- To minimize bad feelings, to improve future communication (such as during co-parenting)
- To minimize the high costs typically associated with litigation
- To reduce stress and anxiety
While there is no way of knowing if you’ll reach these goals through divorce mediation, you’re in position to do so with a dedication to the process and a willingness to negotiate and compromise.
Is it right for everyone?
Even though most people will go through divorce mediation before moving onto litigation, it’s not the right solution for everyone.
For example, if one person refuses to compromise, it’s possible that the mediation process will fall apart. This will eventually lead you to court, at which time a family law judge takes control.
What to expect in divorce mediation
With the help of a mediator, you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse will sit down to bring all the problems to light.
From there, both individuals will partake in a variety of mediation sessions, with the idea of pushing the process forward one step at a time. Some people are able to settle their differences in one or two sessions, while others take much longer to reach a final agreement.
Although you may not be getting along with the other person, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t work things out in mediation. If you’re both willing to work together to a certain degree, there’s no limit on the benefits of mediation.
As you move closer to divorce mediation, focus on what you want to accomplish and the steps for doing so. This will help you create a plan of action that allows you to protect your legal rights every step of the way.