What is Divorce Mediation?
This is a common question, as when most people hear the word “divorce,” the next word that pops into their heads is “court.” But not all divorces occur in a courtroom where tensions and stakes are high. Divorce mediation allows couples to quickly and privately handle their divorce on their terms and is cost-effective. Mediation is a process that results in a fair and equitable settlement decided upon by the individuals divorcing through the intervention of an experienced and impartial third party. The divorce mediator works closely with the couple to work out a mutually beneficial agreement that serves their best interests and their children.
Mediation saves you time, money, resources, and headaches. Divorce is already incredibly stressful; why not make it as fast, cost-effective, and as private as possible.
Let’s explore more.
Benefits of Divorce Mediation Over Litigation
There are countless benefits to going the mediation route when going through a divorce. Here are reasons why to choose mediation over litigation for your divorce.
● Time
Divorce is a painful chapter in anyone’s life. The process should be as quick as possible to reduce unnecessary added stress and pain. The less time spent going through a divorce allows more time for healing and starting a new chapter in life. Litigation can take up to a year or longer in the court process. Meanwhile, mediation can have the divorce wrapped up in as little as two months.
● Privacy
Getting divorced in the court system is a very public process. The litigation system goes much more in-depth into your personal and financial history. Mediation is a more private process that allows couples to get divorced on their terms. Plus, with virtual mediation, many couples handle the most delicate part of their divorce from the comfort and privacy of their home.
● Cost
Mediation is almost always a cheaper option than litigation for your divorce. Some mediations can be resolved in as little as one session. But the number of sessions depends on the client’s current relationship. Some clients come to the table fully ready to come to an agreement and settlement, while others don’t know where to begin. Tensions can be high and will also impact the number of sessions, directly correlating to the cost of the mediation.
Also, some mediators do not require a retainer fee, making it less expensive than litigation. Lastly and perhaps most obviously, your divorce will only need one mediator rather than two attorneys. This process undoubtedly keeps more money in your pocket, ready to use to start the next chapter of your life.
● Communication
Divorce is difficult; there is no way around it. But there are ways to lessen stress and keep more of your relationship intact, which is important if children are involved. Through mediation, clients are encouraged to communicate with one another in a respectful, productive manner. Learning and implementing these communication techniques can be transformative for many clients. It not only can make their divorce process more peaceful, but it also can make their post-divorce life more peaceful. This allows for better co-parenting situations and healthy living situations for kids.
● Low Risk
Mediation does not come with the same high stakes as a courtroom. The litigation process is much more public and indepth, potentially leading to unwanted outcomes. With mediation, the general rules of fairness apply. In the worst-case scenario, you leave mediation to pursue litigation and take your chance in court. Mediation is also non-binding, so anything discussed in your sessions is not enforceable until an executed agreement is signed by both parties.
● Children
If parents have to battle their divorce in court, it can be extremely difficult for their children. The litigation process incites high-stress emotions and situations that can damage a family’s overall well-being. Mediation is easier on kids and creates a less stressful situation for everyone involved.
● Better Solutions
Mediation can provide overall better solutions for all parties involved in the divorce. The mediation process allows you to come to your decisions together voluntarily. The mediator helps guide the conversations and solutions that align with each party’s best wishes rather than the court making the decisions for you. Meditation gives more autonomy to the future of your family than litigation. No one knows what’s best for you or your children more than you. Mediation allows you that control.
Ready to Explore Mediation for Yourself?
Whether you are currently going through the litigation process and or are just starting to think about the divorce, mediation may be the answer. The mediation process allows couples to get divorced on their terms. Please explore our website here to learn how TLC Mediation can help you through your divorce process mindfully and efficiently.