Three Reasons to Choose Mediation in a Divorce
When people enter into the bond of marriage, the hope is that the happiness of the newly-married couple will stand the test of time. The sad reality of the real world is that marital bliss doesn’t always withstand the daily grind of life, which eventually leads some couples to grow apart. If the differences between spouses grow into an insurmountable rift, divorce is sometimes the only option. Should you and your partner find yourself in this situation, here are three reasons why it might be a good idea to consider mediation instead of lawyer and court-based legal proceedings.
Less Expensive
Like any court trial, divorces come with a cost, and the number can be staggering. Both you and your partner would each need to hire a lawyer and take time away from work while the legal system drags its feet. When you use a mediator, you and your spouse are only paying for the services of one professional, which can be a shared expense. Instead of navigating a judge’s crowded docket, meetings happen on your schedule. A divorce can be stressful enough on a family, so why throw away extra money that could be used for the future?
Increased Confidentiality
One reason why many people choose mediation over trial is the privacy that comes with a small meeting. Married couples know the most intimate details about each other, which often results in uncomfortable things being used as evidence against the opposition. Beyond the judge, court proceedings involve additional personnel like reporters, bailiffs and other staff. While each person is a professional, it could be embarrassing to have personal information stated in front of so many strangers. A session with a mediator provides complete confidentiality because it only involves you and your spouse.
Protective of Children
Childless couples often divorce, but it’s much more complicated when a son or daughter is involved. With mediation, it’s possible to lighten the burden on your child who is likely already stressed by the potential dissolution of the family. Court proceedings involve depositions, and can make things become adversarial between the two parties. A mediator can help to keep things calm so you can focus on keeping your kids calm during the process.
Divorce can be an exceptionally complicated time for any family, so why make things more tedious by involving the court system? With a streamlined process that allows for more confidentiality and individualized attention, it’s no wonder why many couples choose to use mediation to reach resolution.
