In mediation, couples utilize the services of a neutral, court-appointed or mutually agreed upon mediator to help negotiate the terms of their divorce agreement, in part or in whole. They may mediate a temporary agreement as to a certain set of issues and/or a more final and global agreement. Mediation, as part of the divorce process, may both expedite the process and minimize costs. Individuals sometimes decline to retain legal advice until a final draft of the proposed divorce agreement is reached, at which point they sometimes elect to have the agreement examined by an attorney. However, individuals often retain an attorney to consult with throughout their divorce process and long prior to mediation. In doing so, individuals may feel more comfortable regarding the fairness of their divorce agreement.
Ideally, mediated divorces are highly collaborative between the individuals involved and can be an amicable way to process this life-changing situation. Many people who have reached divorce agreements through mediation reported friendlier relations with their former partners than those who pursued litigated court divorces. Because of the reportedly fewer negative experiences, mediated divorces can be particularly attractive for couples who have children together.
Variables in Mediated Divorce
While successful mediation may shorten your divorce process and help to reach an amicable outcome, there are several variables that can influence the usefulness of the mediation. These include but are not limited to the preparedness of the parties at the time of mediation, the parties’ willingness to compromise, and the parties’ knowledge of their own goals for mediation.
While mediators can often help resolve discrepancies that may arise during mediation, it can be useful for a party to independently consult with a lawyer to make the process run more smoothly.
Contact Cedar Rapids Divorce Lawyer Today
The Cedar Rapids lawyers at Arenson Law Group, PC understand how delicate the complications that may arise during mediation can be and can help you reach an amicable dissolution of your marriage. Arenson Law Group, PC can also provide a trained mediator to help meet your mediation needs. To speak with one of our lawyers today, please call (319) 220-6700.