Although divorce rates have been declining over the last several decades, they remain an unfortunately common life event. Around 39% of unions go their separate ways.
If you know anyone who has gone through a divorce, you’ve likely heard how difficult they can be. This reputation causes many couples to forgo separating, even if it would be the best decision for all parties involved.
That’s why, if you think it’s time to dissolve your union, divorce mediation should be an option you consider.
Before you move forward with your divorce, consider how this process can help ensure a clean and amicable parting for you and your spouse.
What Is Divorce Mediation?
Mediation is a process where each party and their respective attorney — usually a family lawyer — sit down with a neutral third party. Sometimes the third party is court-appointed, and other times the couple agrees to seek a professional mediator on their own.
In any case, the idea is for the mediator to act as an intermediary and help both parties arrive at a satisfactory arrangement.
What the mediator doesn’t have is any legal authority over the proceedings. They can’t make decisions for the couple or decide for them what’s fair and what’s not.
They’re there to facilitate communication and offer suggestions when the two parties reach a roadblock in negotiations.
It’s an important distinction to make because some individuals are hesitant to seek mediation. They believe that the mediator can dictate their agreement as a judge would.
The Perks of Keeping It Civil
Emotions understandably tend to run high during divorce proceedings. Especially when financial assets or child custody is on the line.
A good mediator can help both parties temper their emotions and come to an agreement not dictated by passion, which tends to be for the best for everyone involved. This is especially true when children are a part of the equation.
What’s more, the process can be faster and less expensive than going through the courts. Both parties also retain their agency, rather than casting themselves upon the mercy of a judge.
As the mediator has no stake in the outcome, they can also be relied upon to help you come to an arrangement that doesn’t benefit either side over the other. The process is also confidential, so you need not be concerned about your privacy.
Securing an Amicable Divorce
No one decides to pursue divorce lightly. And it’s never an easy choice to make.
But divorce mediation can make the process easier for you and your loved ones. And it helps ensure that you both come to a beneficial agreement rather than leave major life decisions up to a judge.
Coming off of this event, you’ll have a lot of decisions that need to be made concerning your finances and lifestyle. Be sure to keep up with all of our latest posts.
