Getting a divorce is a painful process that can become compounded by lawyers and drama. Far too often, lawyers draw the divorce process out, creating a difficult environment even when both parties want the process completed as quickly as possible. The solution? Mediators. Read on to learn about the advantages of using a mediator during your divorce to see if it’s the correct divorce process for you.
What is Mediation?
Unlike attorneys, mediators are a completely unbiased third party who works with you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse to establish what both parties want. These sessions normally take place in an office environment, allowing both parties to reach an agreement that fits their needs. Mediators will not provide legal advice, nor will they make decisions for the couple. Instead, they work to create and draft a divorce settlement agreement.
Lower Cost and No Attorneys
Attorneys can cost thousands of dollars for both parties in addition to court costs. A lot of people joke about divorce putting them near bankruptcy, but cases can quickly cost thousands of dollars, even when both parties are in agreement. Mediation costs significantly less, usually a fraction of what one party’s attorney would cost. When meeting with a mediator, neither party will have an attorney. Instead, both meet at the office to hammer out the details of the divorce settlement.
Less Drama
Because there are no attorneys, there’s (usually) little drama when meeting with a mediator. Both parties will go in with the idea of getting the divorce settled as quickly and fairly as possible. While a mediator may not be the right decision for cantankerous divorce cases, most people are on the same page about what they want and are willing to give to their former spouse. Mediators simply allow couples to work together to create a settlement document the courts will accept.
Faster Resolution
Let’s be honest; the American court system takes time. When you add on meetings with your former spouse and attorneys in addition to court appearances, the divorce process can take months (if not years). Mediation allows you and your soon-to-be-ex to create a document that a judge will sign to grant your divorce. The mediation process is normally completed within a couple of months.
Control Your Situation
No divorce is the same, and proceedings with attorneys can lead to convoluted resolutions neither party likes. You and your spouse have equal control over what happens to your children, assets and yourselves. Some couples may come up with unique living situations or financial arrangements that meet both parties’ needs much easier with a mediator than they would with an attorney.
Looking for Denver divorce mediation or want to figure out if mediation is the correct method for your divorce proceedings? Contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss all of your options.
