Mediation involves a couple working through the matters of their divorce with a neutral third party. Read on to learn more about the process, what it entails, and why so many couples are choosing this method when getting divorced.
Why choose mediation?
Mediation has a lot of different benefits, including:
- Control: Mediation lets spouses have control over the decisions they make regarding their divorce. With a divorce through trial, a judge makes all decisions about their marital issues. Mediation allows spouses to make these decisions.
- Confidentiality: Mediation is confidential. Neither spouse or the third party is permitted to share information in mediation or use it against one another. This allows spouses to be open and honest with one another throughout the process.
- Speed: Mediation is usually quicker than other divorce methods. This may depend on the couple and how many issues there are to resolve.
- Cost: Unlike divorcing through litigation, mediation is cost-effective. Divorce through trial can be expensive for both the couple and the state of New York.
- Choice: Couples are given the option to participate in mediation. It is a voluntary process that lets spouses reach positive decisions on their own.
- Family: When a couple goes through mediation, it typically benefits any family involved. Trials can often be difficult and bring out bad sides in people, while mediation allows for healthy conversations. This is a beneficial option for those with children.
What are some tips for a successful mediation?
While mediation can be extremely beneficial, it can still be a difficult, emotional process. As a result, it is important to keep the following in mind:
- Pick the right mediator: Finding the right mediator is one of the most important parts of the process.
- Do your research: Understand the issues that will be addressed during mediation and what you would like to get out of the process.
- Be honest: It is important to be honest with yourself, your spouse, and your mediator. This process is all about communication and collaboration.
- Control your emotions: Divorce can be difficult, painful, and frustrating. But, it is important to remain calm and level-headed during mediation.
- Be open-minded: Mediation often involves finding creative solutions to benefit both parties. Most of the time, this means compromise. It is important to keep an open mind.
How does mediation end?
When a couple reaches an agreement on the terms of their divorce, the mediator can then draft a Memorandum of Understanding. This outlines the spouses’ agreements made in mediation. After this, the spouses then give the Memorandum to their attorneys who create a Matrimonial Settlement Agreement. Once this is signed, the spouses can go to court as an uncontested case and finalize their divorce.
If you have any questions about the mediation process, reach out to our firm to discuss.
Contact our Firm
We understand that those getting a divorce most likely have several questions regarding the weeks and months to come. Paris P. Eliades Law Firm, LLC is honored to serve the people of New Jersey, including Sparta, Sussex County, Morris County, Passaic County, and Bergen County with the quality legal services they deserve. If you are getting a divorce or have any other questions regarding divorce-related matters, please do not hesitate to contact our firm for a consultation today.
