Choosing to end your marriage is one of the most difficult choices an adult can make. If you have children, the decision becomes even more difficult. Divorce is hard because the decision impacts more than one life. Once a divorce is finalized, it can destroy relationships and leave your life haunted by past arguments, fights over assets, assignments of blame, and attempts for retribution. While not every litigated divorce ends up this way, topics of property division custody agreements and hidden assets can bring out the worst in anyone. Heated conversations and arguments over negotiations can leave your divorce stalled for months. When you and your spouse are divided and unable to reach compromises on any issues, finding a road forward without help can seem impossible. Sometimes, the only way couples move forward is by stepping back and asking for help. Alternative divorce specialists, like mediators and conflict resolution experts, can help couples find a way to agree on the issues and move on with their lives.
What is a Mediated Divorce?
A mediated divorce involves a single mediator who supervises the process and serves as a guide leading the parties to resolution. A mediator cannot give legal advice, and parties are advised to secure legal counsel if they feel it’s needed. There are many benefits to choosing a mediated divorce. It can protect the relationship of couples who plan to co-parent and keep the lines of communication open post-divorce. A mediated divorce can help both parties look to the future rather than being stuck in a past relationship that is being dissolved. There’s no doubt that being asked to work together towards a compromise with someone you want to divorce is a tough proposition. But for couples who must be involved in one another’s life long-term, it can foster a positive relationship that will be beneficial in the future.
Mediation is used in many areas of legal negotiation. As an alternative divorce solution, mediation gives couples the chance to explore issues one by one, moving on from those that stall the process and speeding through the easier topics. Early fast “wins” can foster goodwill between parties who have been stalled for weeks, unable to reach any compromises.
Even with all the benefits of a mediated divorce, it’s not a good solution for every couple. Mediation works well for couples who have an active, communicative relationship. If you aren’t speaking to your spouse or you’re estranged, it will be difficult, if not impossible, to compromise and negotiate in the manner required in a mediated divorce.
Choosing a Divorce Lawyer to Help You Blaze a Path Forward
Knowing the right way to get divorced isn’t something anyone can be sure about, but if you and your spouse can work together, then a mediated divorce may be the right road to lead you to your destination. Only you and your spouse know your capacity for agreement and the details of your situation. Before you make a choice, you should consider the health of your current relationship and meet with a divorce lawyer. At Palmer Rodak & Associates, our attorneys can review the details of your case and help develop a strategy that gets you where you want to be. Call us today at (760) 573-2223 to schedule a consultation.