Are you interested in mediating your divorce?

On Behalf of | May 18, 2018 | divorce |

Coming to terms with ending a marriage can be tough. You may wonder whether it is the right decision and how you will contend with the legal proceedings ahead. In the latter case, you may have dreadful visions of courtroom litigation and constant disagreements, but if you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse can remain amicable, other options may suit your circumstances.

In particular, divorce mediation can offer a more civil approach to ending a marriage than litigation. Instead of having proceedings overseen by a judge who will come to a ruling in the end, you and the other party negotiate terms with the help of a third-party mediator. This avenue can often help make proceedings less contentious and allow everyone to come to a satisfactory outcome.

How does a mediator help?

The mediator helps keep negotiations flowing between the parties involved in hopes of quickly and amicably coming to a settlement. This person cannot make legally binding decisions regarding what he or she thinks the best outcome would be, but the mediator can suggest, explain and try to steer the process in certain directions in order for both sides to meet in the middle. This individual could also help you understand whether certain terms are unreasonable.

Why is mediation more beneficial?

As mentioned, these proceedings may have fewer conflicts and help each side feel as if he or she has gained some ground when it comes to the desired terms. Mediation can also prove less costly and time consuming, which many people prefer rather than facing a drawn-out divorce. Additionally, if any children are involved, you and your ex may have the ability to come to child custody terms without having to attend hearings, which may make the situation less stressful on your kids.

Does mediation always work?

In some cases, individuals begin mediation only to find that they cannot agree to terms. This lack of settlement does not necessarily mean that litigation is imminent as parties could come to terms later and before court hearings are necessary. Of course, if this does not happen, then litigation could occur in order to come to a final divorce decree.

Mediation is one option for dissolving a marriage. If you feel that this method could potentially suit your circumstances, you may wish to find out more information on how to get started.