Mediation offers a number of significant and distinct advantages over more traditional divorce proceedings. However, many couples find themselves unsure of whether or not mediation will work for them. While mediation will not work for everyone, many couples are surprised to learn that mediation can be a successful alternative for them. They believe that, because they are not in agreement over how to resolve certain divorce issues, such as child custody, child support, alimony, or marital asset division, that mediation will not work for them. This is not always the case. If you are curious about whether mediation may be a good option for you, reach out to our firm.
The Requirements for a Successful Divorce Mediation
As previously noted, you and your spouse do not initially need to agree on how to resolve the various divorce issues of child custody, child support, alimony, and division of assets in order for mediation to be successful. In fact, almost no divorcing couple completely agrees on how to handle all of these issues at the beginning of their divorce.
So, while you do not initially need to be in complete agreement over how to resolve these issues, you do need to be in agreement that you would both like to pursue the mediation process. In addition to this initial understanding, a successful mediation process will also require:
- Communication – You and your spouse will need to be able to communicate openly and honestly with your mediation attorney, as well as with each other.
- Compromise – The goal of any divorce mediation is not to secure the most favorable possible divorce settlements for one specific party, rather it is to find settlements that are fair and reasonable to both sides.
- Patience – While mediation tends to be a quicker process than a traditional divorce, that does not mean it is instantaneous. It takes time to understand each party’s position on each divorce issue, and find acceptable middle-ground resolutions.
How an Attorney can Help you Through Mediation
Even if you and your spouse are willing to communicate, compromise, and have patience during the divorce mediation process, its success also relies heavily upon the ability of your mediator to remain completely neutral throughout the process. If one party feels as if their position or needs are not being properly taken into account, or that those of their spouse are being favored, it can very negatively impact the mediation process, and potentially result in its failure. As a result, our lawyers are trained and experienced when it comes to divorce mediation. To speak with a skilled mediation attorney, contact us today.
Contact our Firm
If you require experienced legal representation for a matter of Family Law, Supplemental Security Income, Medical Malpractice, Social Security Disability, or Legal Malpractice, Siragusa Law Firm is here to help. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your case.
