What to Expect From Divorce Mediation
Whether you are looking for a quick resolution for your divorce or you are seeking to prevent it, you may find that mediation is an effective way to achieve your goals. However, before you begin the process, it’s important to know what to expect and to understand some of the common issues that arise during the mediation process.
Cost of divorce mediation
Depending on the complexity of your case and the amount of issues that need to be resolved, the cost of divorce mediation can be quite high. The cost can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
It is difficult to estimate the exact cost of divorce mediation because the amount of time that it takes to reach a conclusion is often variable. Some couples may need several sessions to resolve all of the relevant issues and to discuss their options. The amount of money that you can save by going through mediation is also variable.
The cost of divorce mediation can be reduced by using a professional mediator. A mediator is an impartial third party who works with the couple to reach a solution. Many divorce mediators have other credentials, including being a marriage and family therapist or a certified financial analyst.
A divorce mediator can also draft a comprehensive document to help you settle the issues that need to be addressed. A divorce mediator may employ accountants, appraisers, and other professionals to help you determine the value of your assets and determine how to divide them.
Court-ordered vs. private mediation
Unlike litigation, divorce mediation is private and confidential. This means that it is less stressful and offers more flexibility. This type of negotiation usually takes less time than litigation.
The goal of divorce mediation is to help the parties settle their differences before going to court. This is particularly important when it comes to parenting and child custody issues. However, it is not always possible to reach a resolution on all of the divorce related issues.
Depending on your state, you may be required to participate in a court-ordered mediation. These sessions are free and are typically handled by counselors, lawyers or social workers. These mediators are appointed by the judge.
The purpose of this type of process is to reduce the congestion in the courts. It is also used to resolve financial and property issues. Normally, you can expect to pay a small fee for administrative expenses. The first two hours are free.
Non-adversarial process
Unlike traditional litigation, the non-adversarial divorce mediation process allows you to decide the terms of your divorce. It also provides an informal, private environment in which you and your spouse can discuss issues and work toward an agreement.
A non-adversarial approach fosters better co-parenting and communication, and helps create a more durable outcome for both parties. It can also help you preserve your assets.
A non-adversarial divorce involves the parties working together to find creative solutions to their problems. It’s more like a business meeting than a court room. It’s less expensive, and often quicker. You may need to attend as few as two or three meetings before you’re satisfied with the results.
The mediator, who is an impartial third party, facilitates the negotiation and helps the parties to reach an agreement. The parties decide the costs of the mediator. Depending on the complexity of the issues, the divorce mediation can take between three and eight meetings. The mediation fees are based on an hourly rate.
Children’s issues
Among the issues in divorce mediation, children’s issues are a major concern. The process is stressful for both parties, and children are more likely to suffer emotional turmoil. Nevertheless, divorce mediation can be a helpful way to resolve family conflicts. Using mediation as an effective tool, parents can work through their differences and come to a realistic settlement.
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) studied children’s behavior problems in the aftermath of parental separation. The researchers found that children in divorced families were more likely to exhibit problem behaviors than children in intact families. They also found that the quality of the home environment was a strong mediator of the relationship between parental separation and internalizing behaviors. The study also found that the child’s IQ was protective against the effects of parental separation.
The court upheld the terms of the custody agreement. However, the father claimed that the purchase of a new home less than a mile from the mother’s home was a change in circumstances that justified modification. The court disagreed, however, and felt that the move did not affect the children.
