Divorce Mediator in Daphne, AL
Divorce is a sensitive and complex legal matter. Emotions are high. Marital issues are often unresolved. While some couples are ready to fight it out, others are becoming more aware of the effects. The number of couples exploring the alternatives to litigation is growing exponentially. When a couple can set aside their differences and resolve marital issues in a constructive manner, the result is often easier to bear.
Divorce mediation is quickly becoming one of the most utilized methods of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as couples come to realize the benefits of uncontested divorces. With the help of a mediator, a couple can dissolve their marriage more efficiently, retaining control over their future.
For decades, Stone Crosby’s mediation practice has helped numerous couples divorce without the animosity or legal battle. Our firm would be honored to discuss your situation. Contact Stone Crosby, P.C.
What is mediation?
Mediation is a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution. Facilitated by a neutral third party called a mediator, a couple will come together and work through unresolved marital issues.
These negotiation sessions are focused on a common goal of dissolving the relationship efficiently, leaving deep-seeded emotions aside for respectful discussions. The couple, with the help of the mediator, will address each issue until both parties are satisfied. If successful, the end result will be a separation agreement to file with the court for divorce.
What are the benefits of mediation?
There are numerous benefits of divorce mediation, so much so that courts often explore the practicality of mediation and other forms of ADR before allowing couples to litigate. Some of the benefits include:
Control: When a couple litigates a divorce, many of the decisions are left in the hands of a judge. This person will decide on matters with the facts and statutes available to them. For many, these decisions can feel inequitable. Mediation, on the other hand, keeps control in the hands of the couple, helping them make decisions for themselves and coming to a conclusion that is often more amicable and bearable.
Efficiency/Cost: One of the most prominent benefits to mediation is the money and time saved by resolving marital issues outside of court. Litigation is expensive. Court and legal costs, especially through the discovery phase, can build up quickly. Mediation helps couples move on faster and keep more of their money, which can be better spent elsewhere.
Choice: Mediation is a choice. When couples choose to engage in mediation, they are more committed to the success of the process. This opens couples to the idea of setting aside their emotions for the greater good of the situation, working towards a common purpose and amicably dissolving their relationship.
Reduced Tension: Divorce mediation is conducted in a cooperative rather than combative environment, making it more likely that the participants will be able to produce an amicable settlement that both spouses can be happy with. The mediation process also tends to be far less stressful for those involved, which is especially important if the couple has children.
Family: An understated benefit of mediation is the mitigated impact on the family. Especially when children are involved, mediated divorces are generally better for everyone involved. Couples who engage in mediation provide a positive model for dispute resolution and, in the best cases, forge a newfound cooperative relationship to be used for the years of parenting to follow.
Confidentiality: Mediation is confidential. Neither spouse or the third party involved can share information spoken about during mediation or use it against one another. This allows spouses to be open and honest with one another.
Speed: Mediation can be quicker than other methods of divorce. How long it lasts may depend on the couple and how many marital issues must be resolved.
What are the drawbacks of divorce mediation?
Because divorce mediation requires both spouses to sign off on the settlement, this process will only work if the couple is willing to cooperate and work together for the good of everyone involved. So, if there is a lot of animosity between the two spouses, mediation might not work. Some other situations in which divorce mediation might not be the right solution include cases of domestic abuse and those in which one spouse has been dishonest and suspected of cheating or hiding assets.
Our firm is dedicated to the process of mediation. Though our attorneys are seasoned litigators, our firm also provides mediation services for clients who wish to avoid a legal battle. Our goal is to serve the people of Alabama, tailoring our services to meet their needs in an effective and efficient way. If you believe that mediation may be the right choice for your situation, contact our firm to know more about our mediation services.
