There can be tremendous value in considering divorce options other than the traditionally litigated divorce. Divorcing couples may be unfamiliar with divorce mediation or what it does or may be hazy on the benefits of divorce mediation and how it works. Unlike the traditionally litigated divorce, the mediation process, or other options such as collaborative divorce or court-ordered reconciliation, can be less acrimonious and also more private which can lead to a better overall outcome for the family.
Mediation provides a focus on the future and negotiated compromises rather than fighting it out in court which can also be more time consuming and costly. In some circumstances, mediation may not be the best choice for the couple, in which case the family law process provides options to help them resolve their disputes and reach a divorce settlement agreement, but mediation provides a number of benefits when couples engage in the process.
In any divorce, whether it is being litigated or mediated, the divorcing couple is encouraged to reach agreements concerning as many divorce-related issues as possible, including property division, child custody, child support and alimony concerns. Either the family law judge or the mediation process can help the couple reach a divorce settlement and the mediation process provides divorcing couples with more control over the process and allows them to reach compromises that are best for their family. Any divorce settlement must also be fair to the parties involved and comply with relevant laws.
When a couple has made the difficult decision to divorce, it is important that they understand the different options available through the family law system to help them with their divorce. Different options may be better for different families but mediation provides an option that can lead to a more peaceful divorce process which can be healthier for children and the family as a whole.
