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Divorce Mediation vs. Litigation: What Are the Benefits?

Woman holds her wedding ring looking unhappy. Her husband is in the background.
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Is Divorce Mediation Better Than Litigation?

Making the decision to file for divorce is never easy; it’s enough to turn anyone’s life upside-down. However, what some fail to realize is that this process doesn’t have to be an all-out battle. Not all divorces need to be contentious, and not all couples need to end up in litigation.

By taking the route of divorce mediation vs. a lawyer, couples can choose to end their marriage in a manner that saves them time, money, and unwanted stress. If you are interested in learning more about a divorce mediator vs. attorney, or other divorce options, please contact Moore, Schulman & Moore, APC today.

With Mediation, You Get a Divorce – Not a War

Because every couple’s situation is different, there are various options to take when going through a divorce. Divorce mediation is a favorable one among people who do not have bad intentions and want to work through the issues of their separation together on a less expensive and time-consuming basis. It is for people who want to work out their differences in a safe and comfortable environment, rather than battling it out in a courtroom.

In mediation, the couple hires one neutral mediator to help navigate the process. It is a chance for them to put their emotions aside and try to work out a successful agreement together. Choosing a divorce mediator vs. an attorney typically saves time and money while also being more sensitive to emotions. Statistics show mediation typically keeps a couple out of the courtroom down the road. However, this process requires two people who are able to focus on the issues rationally and amicably.

Mediation Puts You in the Driver's Seat

When pursuing a divorce, it is necessary to evaluate your individual situation before making any decisions. Mediation is best for people who want to reduce tension and maintain a functional relationship after the separation. It is also beneficial for those who have children, since it is a collaborative effort. Rather than having a judge tell you what your fate should be, you can come to your own conclusions and decisions regarding all aspects of your divorce.

By working together, you and your spouse can come to an agreement about:

Another benefit of divorce mediation is that it is completely private. All issues can be discussed confidentially behind the closed doors of a mediator's office, rather than in a public courthouse. All mediation files are also kept private.

Mediation Cuts Your Costs and Saves Time

The average mediated divorce costs about $5,000. This is less expensive than the common litigated divorce. It is also much more efficient with time since the people seeking the divorce are the ones who choose the meeting schedule. Since it is based on your own schedule, you can test out different options and put them in action to see if they work for you.

On the other side, there is also the ability to take as much time as you need. If you do not want to feel rushed in the process of sorting out your divorce, then you have the option to go at your own pace.

Find the Right Mediator for Your California Divorce

One main aspect to focus on when going through mediation is finding the right mediator. It is essential to find someone who will not only be neutral towards both parties, but is also well-educated on family law and divorce. The end result of mediation can only be reached upon the agreement of both parties. It can often leave people feeling more fulfilled with the divorce when they are able to reach their own conclusions instead of having a judge do so for them. If obtaining a conclusion is unsuccessful, then there is always the option to move to a litigation divorce and go to court.

Are you interested in learning more about divorce mediation vs. an attorney? Contact an attorney at Moore, Schulman & Moore, APC for an initial consultation! We have more than 200+ years of family law experience.