A divorce doesn’t have to be fraught and filled with anger and discord. We often hear of terrible divorce battles colored with fights over property and custody disputes. But some couples amicably divide their assets and find a resolution to the issues surrounding the end of their marriage peacefully. An amicable divorce is a real possibility when using a mediator to direct proceedings. Divorce mediation in
Pennsylvania is becoming a more popular option for couples who want a speedier end to their marriage than is possible through the court system. Mediation isn’t an option for everyone as parties will have to be open to negotiation and willing to participate fully in the process. It’s also important to remember the reason for divorce proceedings. A divorce is the dissolution of a marriage contract and the division of shared property. So, even if you and your spouse reach an agreement, it’s important to consult with your own legal counsel before signing anything.
What is Divorce Mediation?
Divorce mediation provides an alternative means of agreeable and dispassionate resolution to divorce-related issues. Mediation starts by selecting a neutral arbiter to lead couples through discussion topics involving issues pertinent to the divorce, like custody, finances, and property. At the end of the mediation process, the mediator will produce a written agreement outlining the divorce details.
The Benefits of Divorce Mediation in PA
Beyond the flexibility it offers, mediation has many other benefits for divorcing couples. In addition to saving time, mediation may also provide savings as couples can often pay for a single mediator instead of two competing legal teams. However, you may still need to secure legal advice during the mediation or document review.
Other benefits of divorce mediation include:
- Protects Children & Retains Control: Children are sometimes an unfortunate causality of divorce proceedings, so choosing to find agreement instead of argument will benefit families. Choosing a mediator also allows families and couples to remain in control of how their divorce progresses.
- Creates Good Will: Creates an open line of communication between divorcing couples and facilitates cooperation and amicable resolution of divorce issues.
- Adds Customization & Flexibility: Because mediation is a choice, unlike divorce proceedings, you have greater control and flexibility over the arbiter and the results after the work has been completed.
- Removes Pressure: Unlike divorce litigation, mediation is an informal process, so couples can take their time and reach agreements at their own pace.
- Heals Divisions & Protects Future Relationships: If your divorce is amicable, avoiding argumentative divorce litigation can prove beneficial to the future relationship between the divorcing pair. This is especially important if the couple needs to co-parent.
Mediation can benefit couples who are still willing to communicate with one another and work for a mutually beneficial resolution to problems and disagreements. This method of problem-solving can be challenging for many couples who haven’t moved past the issues of their divorce.
Final Word on Divorce Mediation
Divorces can be complicated, and they are unique to each couple. Each spouse should decide if mediation would benefit their situation and if it’s the best option. It’s not required that mediators be attorneys, but it’s important to choose a mediator with experience navigating Pennsylvania family and divorce laws.
At William Kirby, Family Lawyer, we are standing by ready to advise you about alternative divorce options. Call us at (215) 515-9901 for help working through the details of your case.