Many individuals get the false impression about divorce when they watch TV. They tend to think that they’re going to have a lot of heated courtroom battles only to be left disillusioned with the outcome in the end.
While litigation in certainly still a viable way to resolve your differences with your spouse, it should only be a last resort. Mediation can be a far more effective approach. Many spouses who pursue this option tend to be happier with the agreements they reach.
How is mediation a more desirable approach to divorce?
There’s a lot of anxiety that comes with putting your faith in someone else to make the right choices for you. A judge only has a set amount of time on their schedule to read about and hear arguments in your case. You and your spouse know your situation far better. A judge makes decisions for you. You and your spouse steer the car is mediation. A mediator is only there to help keep conversations on track and to lead you toward a resolution.
Another great benefit to choosing mediation is that it can save you time and money. A mediator’s schedule is typically more flexible and open than a judge’s. This allows you to resolve your differences more quickly and at less expense.
The combination of reduced costs, more efficient negotiations and having a say in the outcome all result in reduced stress for all parties involved. It doesn’t hurt that mediation occurs behind closed doors instead of in open court, protecting your privacy when discussing property division, child custody and other private matters.
No one looks forward to divorce negotiations, but you can make them a lot more manageable and effective if you leave it up to a mediator to guide you through the process. You should take time to learn more about mediation before deciding whether the is the best approach for you to pursue as you prepare to negotiate a settlement at the end of your marriage.