There are many ways to settle a divorce. Traditionally, divorcing couples may have opted for litigation. However, this often involves lengthy court battles, extensive costs and high stress. Nowadays, alternative options, such as mediation, are becoming more popular.
Mediation is a less formal process that can still come up with legally binding agreements. How does it work and why should you consider it?
The process is private
Court proceedings in a litigated divorce typically become a matter of public record. This means that anyone can look up the details of your divorce if they want to. Mediation doesn’t work like this. The only people who have access to sensitive information during litigation are you, your spouse, mediators and legal representatives. The details of meetings do not become a matter of public record. If you value privacy, then this is one compelling reason to consider mediation.
Building for the future
A litigated divorce can leave spouses at their wit’s end. For parents, this is especially problematic. Parents cannot simply forget about each other after divorce. They will need to foster a co-parenting relationship.
Mediation provides a platform to do this. Divorcing spouses are encouraged to communicate, compromise and place the best interests of the child at the center. This can stand parents in good stead for functioning as a parenting team post-divorce.
It can be cheaper
Mediation isn’t free, but it can be a lot cheaper. A litigated divorce can go on for months and even years. The majority of mediated divorces are settled within a few months. This means fewer court fees, lower legal fees and less time spent in informal environments like the courtroom.
When considering your divorce options, it can help to have legal guidance on your side.
