29 Aug The Benefits of Divorce Mediation
Divorce is a big, ugly word. It is one of the dreaded three “Ds,” followed by death and debt. It is one of the most stressful events a person can go through and can be quite costly in many ways. Having a neutral party to help sort things out can help relieve some of this stress. It can also assist in ensuring a fair split between couples. But what other benefits does divorce mediation offer?
Divorce Mediation Benefits
Divorce, by its very nature, is rarely amicable. It is a stressful situation where two people try to part ways. Under the best of circumstances, a divorce is mutual, and both parties remain cordial. Under the worst, it can be all out war.
Either way, it can be difficult for both parties to walk away feeling fairly treated. The more assets and children involved, the harder it is to reach an ideal divorce agreement.
Fortunately, there is a method that may help couples reach a fair conclusion to their parting of ways: divorce mediation.
At its core, divorce mediation is an effort by a non-biased third-party to resolve contested issues. These “issues” can range from who gets the Rod Stewart album collection to what happens to the family home. The person helping to resolve the dispute(s) over assets and property is known as a mediator.
The obvious effect of the mediation process is that it allows the decision-making process to remain with the couple. This is usually preferable to allowing the courts to decide the fate of your assets. Once involved, a mediator will use problem-solving techniques to try and address the needs of both parties.
The primary benefit to divorce mediation deals with money; simply put, a mediator costs less than dealing with court documents. Every time you draft a motion paper and appear in court, your cost goes up. The longer the dispute, the more money both parties stand to lose.
Other Benefits of Divorce Mediation
Another great benefit of divorce mediation is the fact that you are in control of the outcome. Instead of letting the court have the final say, you and your spouse get to choose the terms of any agreements. This is especially important, when possible, for cases where child custody is an issue. The mother and father typically know better than a court what is best for their children.
Time is another benefit of consulting a mediator. Instead of wasting time going through the court system, a couple can set their own deadline for resolutions. No need to let lawyers and judges decide when they can meet. With the proper mediator – and a willingness by both parties – issues can normally be resolved quickly. Not only does this limit uncertainty and long periods of stress, but it makes separation faster.
Privacy is another issue where divorce mediation excels. In a court setting, your arguments and personal life get paraded before a wide audience. A judge, lawyers, and court employees will all be witness to your testimony. With a mediator, there are fewer people present and communications are confidential.
Why Choose Divorce Mediation?
Aside from the above reasons to choose divorce mediation, above all else, divorce mediation helps protect your children. As difficult as divorce is for a couple, imagine how stressful it must be for children. Not to mention the fact that children may have to take the stand in court. In some instances, a child is put on the stand and asked which parent they would choose. No child should have to make that decision.
Divorce mediation looks at the overall effect divorce is going to have on your child and seeks the best solution for them.
Even if you do not have children, a mediator can help reduce the pain and stress of a divorce. Divorce is an unpleasant process. Tempers can flare, and revenge tempted. A good divorce mediator helps to quell these fires and seek peaceful resolutions. A mediator takes the approach of a disinterested party. That is, they are not there to win or take sides. They simply want to make sure both parties leave happy – or as happy as can be expected.
Finally, mediation is a more flexible solution than traditional court proceedings. You can schedule when it is convenient for you and have the option of using technology to make things easier. For example, instead of meeting at an office, you could always do a Skype conference.
Want to learn more about the benefits of mediation in divorce cases?
Divorce Mediation in Rhode Island
Are you seeking a divorce mediator in Rhode Island? Our divorce mediation services are a great alternative when traditional litigation is not appropriate. Take the decision process out of the hands of the court and put it where it belongs: in your hands. We specialize in all types of family legal matters, including custody, visitation, and alimony. Call today to let us help mediate your divorce.
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