Understanding the Process of Divorce Mediation
Are you dreading a stressful courtroom battle with your soon to be ex-spouse? Divorce mediation is the easiest way to settle your differences with minimal anxiety and expense. As a matter of fact, couples who choose to partake in mediation save more than 75% on legal fees. If you are considering alternative solutions for your divorce, here is a useful guide to help you understand the process of mediation.
Is Mediation the Right Choice?
One of the main concerns with typical court proceedings is the cost associated with hiring an attorney. In addition to large fees, there is no guarantee that a judge will rule in your favor. With divorce mediation, you will receive a written price estimate prior to negotiation, and all decisions will be subject to mutual approval. Furthermore, the mediator will ensure that you and your spouse communicate in a respectful manner and provide any requested documentation for review. By mediating instead of litigating you and your spouse will be able to make fully informed decisions without the hostility, tension, and cost of the adversarial lawyers and court proceedings.
Discussing the Details
If you can cooperate with the basic rules of mediation, the bulk of your time will be spent sharing personal and financial information that is pertinent to the proceedings. At this point, you may be asked to answer questions and provide financial statements or summaries.
During divorce mediation, you are also expected to express your concerns before progressing to the next stage. Feel free to ask questions and make suggestions before committing to a final agreement. Topics that you might want to discuss with your mediator include:
- Child custody agreements
- Spousal support payments
- Child support payments for any minor children
- Distribution of property
- Allocation of debts
Finalizing the Agreement
Once you have addressed each aspect of the divorce, a settlement contract will be drafted for your approval. Preparation and submission is usually included in your initial cost of mediation estimate, so be sure to review each document carefully while you still have the time. With divorce mediation, you can even get the opinion of an attorney to assist with the terms of your final settlement agreement.
After you have made the necessary changes, your documents will be filed with the court and your divorce will be finalized by a judge. These agreements are intended to be all-inclusive and fast approval is generally guaranteed, making mediation well worth the time and expense.
In the end, you and your spouse must decide if you can communicate your needs effectively in a safe, impartial atmosphere. Embrace this new phase in your life by participating in divorce mediation, a final act of cooperation that shows you are ready for a change.
