What is Divorce Mediation?

A More Peaceful Alternative

Divorce is often associated with emotions running high and long, drawn-out courtroom battles, but it is becoming common to see a divorce end via a negotiated settlement agreement. Many couples prefer to end their marriage in a more peaceful manner, and more couples are choosing mediation as a means of resolving their issues.

Read on to learn more about divorce mediation.

A Basic Overview

In mediation, a neutral third party (your mediator) works to help you and your spouse (along with your attorneys) come to terms on a settlement agreement. Often, the mediator will go back and forth between the spouses and communicate any presented terms or objections, and sometimes the mediator will be in front of both parties at once (if they are agreeable enough to do so). The mediator will facilitate discussions and keep parties focused on working through the important issues.

How long mediation lasts depends on how likely it is that you and your spouse can agree on terms. Sometimes mediation can be completed in just one session, but more often than not couples will need a few sessions in order to reach full agreement on a settlement.

Once all terms have been agreed upon, the mediator will compile the terms into a written agreement for both parties to sign; when signed, it becomes official.

Why Choose Mediation?

Mediation often offers couples greater benefits than traditional litigation. For instance, with litigation, the court is in control over the final outcome, which can be a cause for concern for the divorcing parties. With mediation, however, the participants are the ones who create the settlement, thereby putting them in control over the final outcome. In addition, mediation can often be cheaper than litigation because of the shorter amount of time it can take to reach an agreement.

Ask Questions of an Attorney

Mediation serves as just one method of what is known as collaborative divorce. Collaboration, or working with your spouse to resolve issues, is one of the foundational aspects of Verner Brumley Mueller Parker. We can help couples who wish for a more peaceful alternative of ending their marriage find that peace and help them reach an agreement that benefits both of them.

If you have questions about mediation or collaborative divorce or are ready to get started, call our team at (214) 225-6766 or visit our website.