Seven reasons to consider divorce mediation

Did you know that divorce mediation is becoming increasingly popular with couples in Northern Kentucky — and with good reason?

Mediation is a method for alternative dispute resolution that can help you and your spouse reach a divorce settlement or agreement. The mediation process has many advantages over traditional litigation. Here are some of them:

1. Mediation is non-adversarial. Litigation is adversarial. The very nature of the process can pit you and your spouse against each other, stirring additional conflict and potentially damaging your future relationship. In contrast, mediation is collaborative. A neutral mediator helps you and your spouse negotiate and work to arrive at a mutually acceptable solution.
2. Mediation is private. Court proceedings are public. If you go down the traditional litigious route, details about your personal life will become part of the public record. A mediation session happens behind closed doors, allowing you to settle your issues privately. You and your spouse, your lawyer(s), and the mediator are the only parties involved. You could even opt for a mediator who is also a practicing attorney and eliminate the need for involving additional legal professionals.
3. Mediation can be faster than traditional litigation. The family court can take years to issue a decision on your divorce proceedings. If you or your spouse then file an appeal, the process can drag on for a few more years. Mediation is much quicker. What’s more, once you reach an agreement in mediation, it is final: Neither you nor your spouse can appeal it.
4. Mediation can be cheaper. Divorce litigation typically starts at around $15,000 and can go much higher, depending on the complexity of your case and whether the divorce is contested. Mediation is significantly cheaper.
5. Mediation is easier on the children. The animosity that often accompanies divorce proceedings can take a toll on your children. The collaborative nature of mediation helps minimize potential conflicts and can make it easier for your children to go through this challenging time.
6. Mediation puts you in the driver’s seat. Litigation gives you and your spouse little to no control over the process and the outcome. Ultimately, it’s up to the judge to make the final decision. With mediation, you can set your own terms and design flexible solutions that work for you both.
7. Mediation can lay the foundation for a healthy post-divorce relationship. Litigation can make your relationship with your spouse unnecessarily hostile. In contrast, meditation allows you to end your marriage in a civil and respectful manner, which can pave the way for a productive post-divorce relationship.

Are you thinking of giving divorce mediation a try? At Schaffner Family Law, we can provide competent legal advice and help you weigh the pros and cons of mediation and litigation.

We are based in Crestview Hills, KY, and serve clients throughout northern Kentucky. Call us at 859-491-1011 today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.