3 Benefits Of Using A Mediator During A Divorce

As the old song goes, "breaking up is hard to do." It's even more difficult when it's a marriage and children are involved. Thankfully, more and more family lawyers are recommending the parties go through divorce mediation. Here is a look at three benefits of mediation.

You'll Potentially Save Money

When a divorce is uncontested, and everyone agrees with how the assets will be divided and the children will be dealt with, the legal process is straightforward. A divorce that is contested, however, can drag on forever. The longer a legal proceeding goes on, the more money it costs everyone. Mediation can expedite the process, saving you money in the long run.

Your Children Will Suffer Less

Divorce is never easy for any of the parties involved, even under the best of circumstances, and that includes the children. In fact, children are even less-equipped to handle the emotional stress of a divorce. When parents are under duress, it can be difficult to have the mental energy to deal with the children's needs. This is even more problematic if one or both parents are behaving immaturely by trying to get the children to take sides or using them as bargaining chips or pawns in a game.

A mediator can help both parties stay focused and cognizant that the children don't deserve to suffer just because their parents can't get along. A mediator will keep you fixated on what matters most: the best interest of the children. If the children are old enough, the mediator may also meet with each child to get their thoughts on matters of custody and visitation.

You Could Have Increased Autonomy

When a couple battles one another and refuse to come to an agreement on anything, they risk someone else deciding for them. People often erroneously think that divorcing their spouse will magically solve all their problems.

Unfortunately, the problems in the relationship are often magnified during the divorce proceeding. For example, if your communication skills were poor in the marriage, this will likely continue through negotiations. A mediator can help you retain your right to self-govern by keeping you and soon-to-be ex on track, focused on the goal. This is far better than the alternative, having a judge decide for you the way things will be.

If you suspect you and your spouse will have difficulty during the negotiating process, ask your attorney to recommend a family mediator who is well-suited to your personal situation. For more information, reach out to law firms like theLaw Office of Faye Riva Cohen, P.C.