More couples are choosing to mediate their divorce case rather than allowing the court to decide their fate. Mediation gives both parties the flexibility to structure their settlement in terms they feel comfortable with. Here are 6 ways you can benefit from mediation in your divorce action:
Cost Effective: The average cost of a contested divorce action can cost thousands of dollars. If parties are unwilling to communicate with one another directly, all communication has to go through attorneys. Additionally, parties can end up attending multiple court hearings if issues cannot be resolved amicably. By using a mediator, you have more control over the cost and can finalize your divorce in one (or more, if necessary) sitting. You can reduce the back and forth between attorneys and finalize your divorce in a more efficient manner.
Faster Result: The divorce rate averages about 50% but some say it has risen to a staggering 75%. As a result, you can imagine the court’s backlog when processing divorce cases. A hearing date will usually be scheduled 6-8 weeks from the date of filing, and a trial date can take even longer. When you need immediate results, this delay can affect the outcome of your case. Engaging in the mediation process right away will help both parties obtain immediate results. You will feel much better when your matter is resolved quickly, rather than dragging it out for several months or even years through the court system.
Control Over the Outcome: When allowing a judge to decide your matter, you are putting your fate in their hands. Why not maintain control over what could be the most important matter of your life? A San Diego divorce mediator can help you tailor a settlement to fit your family’s needs.
Less Stressful: A contested divorce can be very stressful on the parties and the children, especially when adversarial attorneys are involved to advocate on behalf of their client. An experienced mediator will be fair and impartial to both parties, thus reducing the stress and emotions that are heightened by litigation.
Private and Confidential: When appearing in Court, you are in a public forum. There will likely be several other cases scheduled at the same time as yours. As a result, there will be others in the courtroom, listening to the information you provide to the judge. Mediating your issues in the privacy of a mediator’s office will ensure that your matter is kept private and confidential.
Protects Children from Conflict: Litigation takes a toll on parents. Often, parents become hostile towards one another during a child custody battle and use the children as pawns to get their way. This has a negative impact on the children involved. Mediation can streamline the process and help the parties work together for the benefit of the children.
