As a collaborative process, divorcing couples find that mediation is less stressful than litigation.
However, there are several other benefits. For example, many couples appreciate the privacy of this out-of-court option, including those who have a high net worth.
Understanding mediation
If you and your spouse choose mediation rather than litigation for your divorce, you will meet with a mediator, a neutral third party. The mediator will provide you with access to helpful legal information and to resources such as accountants and financial experts as needed. The goal is to guide you through this collaborative process as you work to develop a settlement agreement you can both agree on and which a judge will approve.
Looking at mediation advantages
Because sessions take place outside of court, mediation is a private, confidential process with less anxiety and stress than traditional divorce. Since it usually takes much less time than litigation, it is also a considerably less costly option. Couples can negotiate property division, decide child custody matters and more, no matter how complex the issues. You remain in control of the outcome, rather than having to abide by the decisions of a judge.
Going for closure
If you and your spouse have decided to end your marriage and dread the idea of a public and possibly contentious divorce in court, mediation may be a good alternative. If you feel you can work together to develop your divorce agreement, the process offers many advantages, such as privacy and control over the outcome. As an added benefit, the focus on open communication will help with family relationships in a post-divorce world.