Most people don’t realize that getting divorced doesn’t have to involve the court. While many assume that divorce means costly and time-consuming litigation, the reality is most people can avoid unnecessary stress during their divorce by opting for an alternative.
One of the most common alternatives out there is divorce mediation, which can facilitate the entire divorce process without ending up in litigation. In fact, that’s usually the whole goal of mediation – especially when spouses are reasonably amicable and willing to work out terms of the settlement together.
How Does Divorce Mediation Work?
Divorce mediation is a process in which two parties (i.e. the spouses in a marriage) meet with a neutral, third-party mediator during several sessions. The mediator’s role is to guide the couple through various issues relevant to their divorce, take both sides into account, and help both sides reach important agreements. These agreements are later reflected in a divorce settlement, which is submitted to the court for a judge’s ultimate approval.
Although mediators don’t necessarily have to be lawyers, many divorce attorneys perform this service, such as Kay Polk, Attorney at Law. This can be advantageous because an experienced divorce attorney knows and understands many of the legal issues involved in a divorce, which can provide an extra layer of assurance that you’re benefiting from a high-quality mediation.
Because neither side is usually represented by their own separate attorney – and there are few to no court fees to consider – mediation can also cut down on many of the costs associated with divorce.
Which Issues Can Divorce Mediation Address?
Divorce mediation can address any and all issues relevant to your divorce. This includes the most important topics in any divorce, such as property division, alimony, child custody, and child support.
When Is Divorce Mediation Not a Good Choice?
Divorce mediation may not yield the best possible results when spouses are unable to cooperate or there is a history of domestic violence.
The keys to successful divorce mediation are meeting your spouse on an even playing field, so to speak, and working on the terms of your divorce together. When one or both spouses aren’t committed to collaboration, or there is an uneven power dynamic, mediation is unlikely to succeed.
We Offer Divorce Mediation Services
If you and your spouse wish to simplify the divorce process and mutually settle your divorce, choosing mediation can be right for you. Our experienced divorce lawyer at Kay Polk, Attorney at Law can help you understand this process in greater detail during a consultation, which you can schedule with us at any time.
To get started today, feel free to contact Kay Polk, Attorney at Law online or call (713) 234-6260">(713) 234-6260 now.
