Dissolving your marriage through a traditional divorce may be too lengthy, costly, and exhausting. Mediation might be a more cost-efficient alternative, and it can help you get more control over the process and outcomes of your divorce.
What is mediation?
Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution solution that couples sometimes use to arrange and finalize the details of their separation. In this process, the couple typically discuss the terms of their divorce, including custody and asset division, with the help of a neutral mediator. The couple usually takes steps to ensure that the agreements they arrive at during mediation become binding and enforceable.
How does mediation give you more control?
Mediation is generally a voluntary process wherein all parties agree to collaborate in coming up with an amicable resolution to the divorce. Compared to traditional methods of finalizing a divorce, mediation might give you greater control over the following aspects of your separation.
- Time. Traditional divorce may take years to finish. With mediation, you and your spouse do not rely solely on the court’s calendar. Instead, you can agree on a schedule that works for you both and might allow you to complete your divorce faster.
- Procedure. Traditional divorce often follows a specific set of steps to resolve the different terms of your separation. Mediation follows certain rules, too, but these are usually more flexible than court procedures.
- Outcomes. A divorce judge mainly decides on matters like spousal support and visitation rights, and these decisions may not always be agreeable to you. With mediation, you and your spouse negotiate toward a fair conclusion.
It is not easy separating from your partner, but divorce does not always have to be complicated. Other approaches, such as mediation, might help you finalize your divorce in a manner that closely matches your situation and needs.