Divorce is a major life decision, and it can affect the entire family. Many separated couples who have children worry how the divorce will impact them, especially if they are young. Parents have different avenues they can pursue when going through the divorce process that will make the transition easier. One viable option is divorce mediation.
Mediation happens out of court and allows both parties to come to agreement on various divorce-related issues. Divorcing spouses should consider mediation under certain circumstances. They might find that mediation is suitable for them and their children. Listed below are some important benefits of divorce mediation.
Reduced Arguments
In a tumultuous divorce, the parties will often argue. Sometimes, parents can be combative in front of their children, and this toxic environment can have short-term and long-term effects. However, divorce mediation will help lessen arguments. The divorcing couple can have their wishes represented by a mediator to avoid conflicts. Less arguments is best for the children and other family members.
A mediator is a non-biased entity and can help the parties come to an agreement by examining the sources of conflict. The parties do not have to be in the same room. In cases in which the divorce is especially contentious, the divorcing spouses will have separate rooms, and the mediator will go back and forth with comments and negotiations. The mediator is a neutral party to help the couple reach agreements, but it is important to note that mediators do not control the overall outcome of the case, unlike a judge. This means that both parties and their divorce lawyers have to work toward resolving their case.
Faster Divorce
Divorce mediation can expedite a divorce, which is why a lot of spouses will choose this option. During divorce litigation, numerous parties are involved, such as the lawyers, judge, spouses, paralegals, and clerks, and conflicting schedules may lengthen the case. It often takes weeks or longer to schedule hearings, which is why many divorces can take years to resolve. However, fewer parties are involved in mediation, and the process can come to an end after a few sessions in certain circumstances. This can also reduce legal fees. Additionally, mediation will reduce court battles and ultimately lessen the time of the case.
In some cases, a judge will issue court-mandated mediation. In some states, it is required that divorcing couples go through mediation before going to court. In either scenario, voluntary and mandated mediation can lessen court battles and shorten the case. A shorter divorce will help children and help family members adjust easier.
Cooperation
Children can become caught in the middle of their parents’ arguments and divorce, and mediation will likely decrease fights between the parties. A main goal of mediation is to not rehash old arguments and to work toward settling the divorce. If divorcing spouses choose to mediate, their children can see that they are trying to work together to resolve their issues. This cooperation allows children to see their parents working together as well as help the children not be a part of a toxic environment. Mediation can set a good example for them.
More Family Time
Mediation will likely decrease court battles and the overall length of the divorce case, which means that children will have more much needed time with their parents. A divorce may take away bonding time between parents and children, but mediation may help. If divorce matters are quickly resolved in mediation, parents and children will be able to spend more time together without the added stress.
Additionally, parents have more leniency to create their divorce agreement in mediation. This can help the divorcing spouses create the ideal plan for the situation, which may involve ways to incorporate family time into their schedules.
Accountability
Most important divorce matters can be solved through mediation, especially when it is court ordered. This means that each party will take accountability for what is agreed on. By quickly solving these issues, the parties can focus on spending time with their children instead of court battles. Additionally, children will not be caught in the middle of fights.
Flexibility
Both parties can tailor their needs in mediation. Unlike court, there will be no directives from a judge, and the divorcing spouses will have more flexibility. Both parents working together will help resolve the divorce case quickly so that they can focus on the needs of their children.
What if an Agreement Cannot be Reached?
Ideally, important divorce matters will be decided in mediation, such as the child’s living arrangements and custody and visitation issues. Sometimes, neither party will be flexible, and they cannot reach an agreement. In this case, the parties will go before the court and a judge will make decisions. It is important to note that the mediator is forbidden to reveal anything that was discussed during the mediation sessions.
It is advisable to contact a lawyer as soon as one considers divorce, even if one is looking to go to mediation. Before mediation begins, a lawyer can inform their client about state laws and expectations. A lawyer may be able to help select a mediator if one was not appointed by the court as well as help decide settlements while protect their client’s rights.
Towson Divorce Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Help Families with Divorce Mediation
Mediation might be a good option, and it can help lessen the burden on children. If you are looking to start the divorce or mediation process, contact the dedicated Towson divorce lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC for help with your case. The divorce process has many components, and our firm can help you choose the best route. For more information and a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 443-589-0150. Located in Hunt Valley and Towson, Maryland, we serve clients throughout Baltimore, Baltimore County, Bel Air, Bentley Springs, Columbia, Freeland, Hereford, Hampton, Westminster, Essex, Monkton, Sparks Glencoe, Parkton, Phoenix, Pikesville, White Hall, Carroll County, Harford County, and Howard County.
