There are couples that soon find that mediation is the best decision they can make with regard to their divorce. There are also those who realize that this will never work for them, so they immediately turn to litigation.
If you’re thinking about divorce mediation, it’s important to understand the goals of the process. If you don’t know what you’re trying to accomplish and the steps to take, you may find it a challenge to make progress.
No two divorcing couples are in the exact same position, however, the most basic divorce mediation goals typically remain the same:
- To minimize future trouble, such as the hostility that often results from litigation
- To create an equitable and legal divorce agreement
- To avoid the expenses and time that are typical of litigation
When you take on divorce mediation with these three goals in mind, it’s much easier to make the right decisions and do whatever you can to push the process forward.
Mediation can help settle many issues
Many people overlook the many details that will come to light during a divorce. There is more to this than making your split legal in the eyes of the court.
For example, you may need to address a variety of questions and concerns regarding child support, child custody, and alimony.
As you get started, you will lay out all of the issues to discuss and negotiate with the other individual. With this information on the table, the mediator will know what you’re looking to accomplish.
There is help to be had
The mediator acts as a neutral third party. This person does not have the power to make decisions for you or your spouse. Instead, he or she is there to push the process forward.
If you want professional advice – and you should – it’s best to consult with a family law attorney. Even though you are avoiding litigation, it doesn’t mean you have to take on the process without assistance. In fact, when you have an attorney by your side during the mediation sessions, you’ll feel better about your ability to make sound decisions.
With a variety of benefits and the ability to work toward several high level goals, more couples than ever are considering the benefits of divorce mediation.
