If you have considered filing for legal separation or divorce, you may have thought about all of your options when it comes to dissolving your marriage. Two of the most popular methods of filing for divorce involve traditional courtroom divorce and mediation. Mediation has many advantages over courtroom litigation. Research shows that couples who choose to undergo mediation often end the marriage on better terms than those who choose to do so under traditional divorce. Since mediation is presented as non-confrontational and is more relaxed, you may not have the heated emotions that couples have when battling out in court.
One advantage of mediation is that it is more cost-effective. You may be able to avoid having to pay expensive court fees and eveny reduce attorneys’ fees as well. Divorces may be completed quicker through mediation, in that you are able to schedule your mediation appointments rather than wait for lengthy court dates. In some cases, a divorce can be finalized in just one or two mediation appointments.
When you go through mediation, you may choose whether to have an attorney present with you at the appointments. You and your spouse are able to create a divorce settlement based on your unique circumstances. This may allow you to create terms in the settlement that would not have been available to you otherwise. Mediation gives you control over your settlement, rather than leave your future in the hands of a court-appointed judge.
This information is intended to educate and should not be used as a source for legal advice.
