A Full-service Law Firm Dedicated To Helping Our Communities With Over 100 Years Of Combined Experience

Would mediation be a better divorce option than litigation?

On Behalf of | Oct 17, 2022 | Family Law

A divorce is a momentous event in anyone’s life. If you and your spouse are ending your marriage, you likely dread a long, stressful divorce in court.

However, you have options, one of which is mediation. Given your circumstances, could this be a better choice than litigation?

About divorce mediation

Many couples find that divorce mediation, a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), is a better option than litigation. Mediation takes place outside of court in more relaxed surroundings. You meet with a trained mediator, a neutral third party. The mediator will not take sides but will provide assistance and access to pertinent legal information while you and your spouse work together to reach a settlement agreement. When sticking points arise, the mediator will propose problem-solving alternatives for you to consider. The mediator will also keep the discussions on track and free of contentious conduct.

About benefits

Mediation has several advantages over litigation. Many couples appreciate the privacy it affords rather than having to endure a public divorce in court. Mediation usually takes much less time than litigation and is therefore a less expensive option. Studies show that it is also a less stressful process, especially for the children of the marriage.

About communication

The key to successful mediation is open communication, during which you will work on every aspect of the divorce from property division to child custody matters. You and your spouse have the opportunity to listen to each other, ask questions and voice opinions. In addition, you will likely find that learning to communicate during the process will be a great benefit as you build new family relationships in a post-divorce world.