What Is Involved in the Divorce Mediation Process?

There’s nothing pleasant about divorce.

After all, no one ever gets married, expecting their relationship to end at some point. But when divorce becomes unavoidable, the best strategy is to use the mediation process to work through the details rather than spending a fortune on divorce lawyers.

This article takes a look at what to expect from a mediation service. It will also provide clarity about how to expedite your legal separation. Please keep reading to learn all the important details.

What are the Benefits of Mediation?

Let’s start by discussing the benefits of choosing mediation during the separation process rather than using lawyers for your divorce proceedings.

Mediation is much less expensive. That’s because you aren’t getting billed for endless hours of legal costs. The process can also move along much faster.

You and your soon-to-be-ex-spouse have control over the outcome rather than leaving things up to a judge. This can help reduce the overall stress of the experience.

Mediation is also beneficial for your children because neither side is winning or losing. Instead, you are striving to reach a settlement that is agreeable to everyone involved.

The Introductory Stage of Mediation

During the introductory stage, the mediator will explain how the process works. They need to define everyone’s role in the process clearly and to establish trust with both parties.

The Information-Gathering Stage of Mediation

During this stage, your mediator will discuss the general rules for the process. They should also establish state laws regarding taxes, life insurance, child support, and alimony.

Both of you will be asked to provide financial documents, including tax returns, mortgage statements, bank statements, and to list your assets and debts.

The Framing Stage of Mediation

The framing state is designed to allow each spouse to outline their reasons for asking for specific items in the settlement. The mediator’s job here is to separate needs from interests and to help address major topics of concern, including division of debt, child custody, and financial support.

Be sure to hire an experienced meditation firm like Amicable Divorce.

The Negotiating Stage of Mediation

When negotiations begin, each spouse will be asked to define what they would accept in the settlement. Obviously, the negotiation process can take time.

This is often the most complicated and stressful part of the process. But ultimately, the eventual settlement should please both sides.

The Concluding Stage of Mediation

Once you’ve reached the concluding stage, a tentative settlement agreement will be put into writing. This will give each party a chance to look over the final document and have it reviewed by advisors to make changes if necessary.

A Guide to Understanding the Mediation Process

Going through a divorce is painful no matter who you are. Fortunately, this guide to the mediation process provides insight into what to expect so that your experience will be much less stressful.

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