Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party helps a couple sort out and resolve issues in regards to their divorce. A mediator guides the couple through the list of decisions that are required for a divorce. This is a less stressful way of ending a marriage, especially if children are involved. In mediation, the mediator does not represent either party and cannot give legal advice. The mediator can, however, give suggestions as to how to resolve issues and help the parties decide important matters such as child raising decisions, rather than leaving those decisions to a judge.
The purpose of a mediator is to help the parting couple make decisions outside of the court, and a mediator can also prepare the agreement (if an agreement is reached) and help fill out the forms that are needed for the divorce. This helps tremendously reduce the cost of a divorce and the time involved in the court. Each party can, and should, consult with a separate lawyer for legal advice on certain aspects of the divorce, such as alimony, child support, or legal rights to certain properties or debts.
Mediation is known to be an easier way to obtain a divorce. If you and your spouse agree or are able to sit down and discuss most of the issues such as child custody, child support, alimony, distributing property, and time sharing, then mediation is for you. It is emotionally easier for you as well as your children. Those who do not feel comfortable having a face to face discussion with their spouse about the divorce issues may need to forego mediation and hire separate divorce attorneys.
The impact that divorce can have on children is something that parents need to consider. If your children can see you and your spouse working together to reach a final agreement, instead of arguing your way to an agreement, it is a lot less stressful for them. Lori Barkus is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator and a Family Law Mediator.
The focus at Sustainable Family Solutions is to help you and your spouse reach a final agreement in an easier, more affordable, less emotionally charged way than traditional divorce. Before you decide to file for divorce, please have a discussion with your spouse about the option for mediation. We are here to help those in the Fort Lauderdale, Broward county area. Our services include mediation, divorce, alimony, child support, child custody, adoption, and more. Please call us at Call 954-349-7988 or contact us online.