If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of filing for divorce, there is a way that you may keep the process out of the courtroom: mediation.
Mediation is a process that involves you, your spouse, and a mediator. The mediator does not work for you, or your spouse, but is there to guide you through the divorce process.
A mediator will help you work through issues such as distribution of property, retirement and tax issues, and perhaps, most importantly, child custody. You and your spouse will work with the mediator, and you will control the process instead of the courts doing so.
A mediator will help you work out agreements on all of these issues. When you and your soon-to-be ex spouse are having trouble negotiating, that is when the mediator will intervene. It is the mediators job to keep lines of communication open and to assist you in the decision-making process. A mediator will help keep you focused on the issues at hand.
Mediation allows you and your spouse to decide what is best for your family when making such life-changing decisions. It can be especially helpful when there are children involved. Lack of communication is one of the biggest reasons for divorce. Being able to communicate about your children post-divorce is most important.
Mediation is voluntary and continues for only as long as you, your spouse, and the mediator all agree. There is no set time table during which to resolve all of your issues, and sessions may be weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. You will decide what is best in your case.
If you have legal questions, please consult our Online Legal Directory to find and attorney in your area.