Litigation isn’t the only way to end a marriage in Michigan. Divorce mediation is another method spouses can use to part ways — and it can come with a number of benefits. With divorce mediation, spouses can keep their case out of the courtroom and divorce more amicably. Spouses can also remain in control of the outcome of their case, rather than let a judge decide the issues that are important to them.
If you are considering whether mediation is right for your case, it’s essential to consider the following benefits of divorce mediation:
One of the main benefits of divorce mediation is that it uses a neutral third-party called a mediator to facilitate open and honest communication between spouses in a safe environment. The mediator does not take sides — they encourage the parties to discuss their concerns in a peaceful and respectful manner. Unlike in traditional litigation, the mediation process promotes active listening and cooperation. In addition, spouses are taught effective communication skills in mediation that they can use in their co-parenting relationship.
In contrast with litigation — which can be costly and time-consuming — mediation is an efficient and cost-effective way to divorce. In some cases, only a few mediation sessions might be needed to reach a settlement, depending on the complexity of the case. The sessions can be scheduled at the convenience of the spouses, unlike litigation which relies on the court’s calendar.
One of the many benefits of divorce mediation is that it can help a couple divorce more amicably than the adversarial litigation process. With less contentiousness, a couple can focus on preserving their co-parenting relationship for the benefit of their children. In mediation, a couple will also acquire tools for positive and healthy communication that they can carry with them moving forward. This can help to reduce the potential for litigation in the future.
While divorce litigation takes place in an open courtroom and everything that is said becomes part of the public record, mediation is confidential. This can ensure financial matters and the details regarding the marriage are kept private. Nothing that is discussed in divorce mediation will leave the room — and the only paper that is filed with the court is a settlement agreement. Once this document is filed with the court, it is signed by the judge and made into a court order.
Due to the cost, time, and adversarial aspect of litigation, divorcing in court can be a stressful process. Mediation can reduce the emotional toll of divorce by offering couples a relaxed environment to work toward a negotiation. With a focus on collaboration, it can lessen the hostility that often comes with divorce and promote a healthy relationship between spouses.
Settling a divorce using mediation can allow a couple to find a solution that works for their family’s unique needs. The agreement that is reached in mediation can be customized to take their priorities into account. Mediation also allows a couple to focus on the best interests of their children and craft a custody arrangement that everyone is satisfied with.
Divorce mediation is informal — this can help to reduce much of the tension that is inherent in the traditional courtroom process. There are also fewer rules that must be complied with and no formal discovery process. This can help to keep the parties focused on the needs of the case, rather than on court filings and adherence to a formal legal process.
Divorce mediation allows the parties to retain control over the outcome of the case, rather than let a judge decide. With the help of a mediator, the spouses can reach compromises for important issues such as child custody, child support, property division, and alimony. The decisions that are reached in mediation regarding these matters are often much more detailed than the court orders that a judge would issue in the courtroom. Since couples work to craft a settlement that meets their needs in mediation, they are often more satisfied with the outcome.
If you are wondering whether divorce mediation is right for your case, it’s important to consult with a skillful family law attorney. Located in Sterling Heights, The Law Offices of Kevin R. Lynch P.L.C. provides a wide array of matrimonial and family law services to Michigan residents, including divorce mediation. You can set up a free consultation by calling 586-336-1088 or contacting us online. We assist clients throughout Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties.
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