Mediation is a process in a divorce case where an independent professional, most commonly a divorce lawyer Milwaukee or a retired judge, helps the couple work through their conflict. This person helps parties speak with one another, understand each other’s needs and wants, negotiate compromises, and resolve issues so that they can go on to build happier futures.
It is best to choose mediation if you are experiencing “high conflict” in the divorce process. High-conflict situations make it difficult for you to communicate with your spouse, and this can make divorce a lot more stressful. Mediation helps couples focus on what is most important to them and lets them figure out a way to live together as friends instead of wasting their time bickering. Mediation also benefits children by allowing parents to improve communication with one another and take full advantage of help from a mediator.
We will now see the main benefits of using mediation.
- Less stressful
Most people come into divorce with several issues that are bothering them. It can be upsetting to discuss these problems with someone you’re no longer close to, especially if it’s related to your children. Mediation allows couples to express their concerns in a safe environment and get them out of the way so that everyone can move on with their lives. This can make the whole process less stressful for both spouses.
- Less expensive
If you go to a lawyer to handle your divorce, the process is usually long, expensive, and takes up a lot of time. Mediation is done on a faster timeline. This can save you hundreds of dollars in legal fees that are going to come out of your pocket.
- Quicker and more flexible
Mediation is more flexible than hiring an attorney and going through a divorce court in that it allows you to pace yourself and focus on what is most important to you at any given time.
- Private and confidential
In a court setting, everything is public. Anything you talk about in your case will be put into a permanent file and made available to the general public. In mediation, you can speak freely without fear of judgment or embarrassment.
- Child-centered and more peaceful
Mediation is more beneficial for children because it puts their needs and feelings first in the divorce process. Children want to see their parents get along peacefully and make decisions for the better good. If a parent is screaming at another in court, this can be upsetting to the children. Mediation gives every parent an equal voice and lets them work together peacefully for what is best.