Helping save time and money through divorce mediation, Divorce mediation
Divorce Mediation Saves You Time, Money and Stress
No matter how agreeable you and your spouse may be, divorce is a difficult time for everyone involved. Concerns will arise during your discussions and create emotional turbulence that can lead to heated disagreements. When you and your spouse cannot come to an agreement, you may assume that your next step is to call a lawyer. However, you are not required to use lawyers, judges and courts to settle your terms. If you and your spouse wish to negotiate outside the courtroom, but need a buffer to help facilitate the conversation, there are professionals that specialize in helping save time and money through divorce mediation.
Why Should I Hire a Divorce Mediator?
Divorce mediation is the process of negotiating the terms of your divorce outside the courtroom so that both party’s needs are satisfied. A professional mediator serves as a liaison between you and your spouse and educates you both on the process for dividing your assets, allocating your debts, determining child custody rights and all other aspects of the divorce.
Your mediator can also help reduce the stress associated with divorce and take away some of the emotional aspects that create barriers in conversation. Productive conversation is one of the most challenging aspects of divorce and can stretch the process longer than necessary. That is why a professional who specializes in helping save time and money through divorce mediation is valuable to the process.
Also, if you have children, mediation is a much better way to provide a smooth transition for your kids and prevents them from having to suffer the discomfort of appearing in court. Your children may feel more secure knowing you and your spouse are negotiating civilly rather than arguing heatedly.
How Are Mediators Different Than Divorce Lawyers?
Professional mediators are knowledgeable in law, finances, business and family therapy. They have a wide background that allows them to quickly relate to you and your situation. Their goal is to seek common ground and make sure both you and your spouse know your rights and are treated fairly through the divorce process. Mediators handle all the legal paperwork and submit it to the courts, but they do not require you to speak with a judge or attend a hearing.
You are always entitled to speak to a divorce lawyer for legal advice and to review all the paperwork before signing. However, independent lawyers are not included in your mediation program, so you are responsible for all fees associated with hiring an independent lawyer.
How Does Mediation Save Time and Money?
Mediation is typically completed within a few weeks as opposed to a few months or more when you choose to appear in court. Your mediator completes all paperwork, communicates with state offices and only contacts you if there are problems or if additional information is needed. Appointments are scheduled when they are convenient for all parties, and all fees are disclosed upfront, so there are no surprises at the end.
Overall, effective communication is key for helping save time and money through divorce mediation. When you arrive prepared and are willing to reach an agreement, mediation can significantly decrease your emotional stress and speed up the entire divorce process.