Popular media often feeds audiences’ innate love of drama with relationships fraught with tension and fighting. As a result of television and movie portrayals of divorce, many individuals are under the misconception that it has to be a long, drawn-out battle in court.
However, while this may occur in real life, it does not always have to be the case. In fact, you do not even have to go through litigation if you and your soon-to-be-former partner come to an agreement. Mediation is when you and the other party negotiate with the aid of a neutral third party and comes with many advantages.
1. You retain control
When you go to court, the final decision remains in the judge’s hands. With mediation, you do not have to settle for an unsatisfactory agreement. You have the ability to negotiate until you choose to stop. Both you and the other party also have the right to withdraw from negotiations at any time since the process is entirely voluntary. Furthermore, mediation comes with more confidentiality. Litigated divorce proceedings are not private. Mediated discussions are.
2. You save money
With mediation, you avoid court fees. Since you do not have to wait on a court and judge, you may also save money by reducing the amount of time it takes for the divorce to go through.
3. You leave more satisfied
You and your soon-to-be-ex-spouse may be happier with the results of mediation because you may continue until both sides are content. There is also less conflict due to the presence of the mediator, who received training to help resolve issues.
Divorce does not have to be a struggle. Mediation may help make the process easier.