Divorce mediation is becoming an increasingly popular option for couples looking to bring their marriage to a swift and amicable end. It’s an alternative that allows both sides to come together, with the help of a neutral mediator, to reach agreements on all aspects of the divorce in a respectful manner. A divorce lawyer can be your mediator. However, before you choose any divorce lawyer, look at their website to understand their expertise in family law.
While there are numerous benefits to opting for divorce mediation, it’s important to be aware of the major pros and cons before making a decision.
Pros of Divorce Mediation
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More control over the outcome
One major advantage of opting for divorce mediation is that both parties have control over the decisions made. This can help to reduce stress and feelings of helplessness, as well as give couples a greater sense of closure when it comes to their marriage.
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Faster resolution
Divorce mediation can often be completed much quicker than traditional divorce proceedings, as there is no need to wait for court dates or for a judge to make decisions. This means couples can move forward with their lives sooner rather than being stuck in limbo while waiting for the process to be completed.
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Significant cost and time savings
Divorce mediation can also be much less expensive than traditional divorce proceedings. The cost savings come from the fact that there is no need to pay court costs, which makes it more affordable for couples who are considering this option. It also eliminates the need for frequent court appearances, resulting in significant time savings.
Cons of Divorce Mediation
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Not effective if your spouse is not ready for negotiation
Divorce mediation is only effective if both parties are willing to cooperate and negotiate in good faith. If one spouse is unwilling to compromise or make concessions, the process can be stalled or even derailed completely.
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No guarantee of fairness
Divorce mediation relies on an agreement reached by both sides without any court oversight, meaning there is no guarantee that the agreement will be fair to both parties. This can leave one party feeling like they’ve been taken advantage of or that their rights have been violated in some way.
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Not suitable when domestic violence is involved
Divorce mediation is not suitable when domestic violence is a factor in the marriage. This type of situation requires specialized attention from professionals who are trained to handle these types of cases.
