Why To Consider Mediation For A Divorce

Did you know that you don’t actually have to go to court in order to get a divorce? Most people mistakenly believe that divorce has to be a long, arduous, and expensive legal process. And it certainly can be. However, that does not always have to be the case. In fact, you really can dissolve your marriage without stepping foot in a courtroom and for a fraction of the cost. The best way to do this is by utilizing divorce mediation.

What is Divorce Mediation?

Divorce mediation is a process by which a neutral third-party mediator guides both parties in arriving at mutually agreeable outcomes on all issues relating to the dissolution of their marriage. Depending on their circumstances this may include the equitable distribution of assets, alimony or spousal support payments, and child support, custody, and visitation. The mediator is a neutral third-party, which means they do not take sides or advocate for either party. Rather, they help the parties to work through conflicts that are standing in the way of reaching mutual resolutions. The mediator may be a licensed attorney, but will not provide legal advice to either party on whether the proposed agreement is beneficial for them, instead leaving room for the parties to agree on what they both want.

How Does Divorce Mediation Work?

Once the parties have arrived at resolutions on the issues relating to their divorce, the mediator will draft them into a formal divorce agreement. At this point, each party has the opportunity to have a lawyer review the proposed divorce agreement. This agreement is not binding, and either party can propose changes or change their mind about agreeing to it. If neither party changes their mind and both elect to move forward with the agreement, the mediator will then submit it to the court for approval. Once the divorce agreement is approved it will be ordered into effect without the parties ever having to step foot in the courtroom.

Benefits of Divorce Mediation

The most expensive part of a divorce is the legal fees, and this is generally due to the litigation involved. Litigation is the most expensive service that attorneys provide, and mediation allows you to avoid it completely. Additionally, while it can take months to complete a divorce through the courts, divorce mediation can often allow for a resolution in a matter of hours. Finally, it has a very high success rate, and most couples report that it decreased the amount of stress they experienced during divorce. If you are going to be continuing to co-parent children, the conflict resolution techniques used can also prove to be helpful building blocks moving forward.

Contact the Faulkner Law Group in Tampa, Florida

If you are considering a divorce and want to get through the process as quickly and painlessly as possible, contact the Faulkner Law Group to learn about divorce mediation and whether it’s right for you. Reach out to the Tampa family lawyers at the Faulkner Law Group today to schedule a consultation.

Source:

flcourts.org/Resources-Services/Alternative-Dispute-Resolution/Mediation-in-Florida