Divorce is never easy. It has taken a long time for you to make the decision to split up. And even if you and your spouse are still on “good terms”, you’ll still encounter problems when you attempt to work out the details of your separation. Rarely is there equal bargaining power in a marriage. Plus, it is very difficult to make rational decisions when emotions are running high. Few situations are as emotionally charged as the end of a relationship.
Mediation is a voluntary settlement process which allows you to control your own destiny rather than leaving your fate up to a judge who knows nothing about your or your spouse. You need never step foot into a courtroom as all discussions are held in the safety and comfort of the mediator’s office. Because of this mediation is far less costly in both economic and emotional terms. Couples can save up to 90% over a traditional courtroom battle by using the mediation process.
How it works:
Divorce Mediation is a step by step process through which separating couples arrive at a fair agreement which is acceptable to both parties. It is conducted under the guidance of a trained professional who helps the couple to make their own important decisions concerning their changing and uncertain future. The mediator need not be a lawyer. A psychologist with some knowledge of divorce law can be quite effective in dealing with a couple going through a breakup of their marriage.
The mediator helps you identify the points upon which you already agree and works from there, with cooperative problem solving, to work on the issues which are not so easily disposed of. Some examples of typical questions which come up during the process are: