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How Can Mediation Streamline Your Divorce Process?
Divorce and all it entails can be an emotionally charged subject for couples. Attempting to settle disagreements over divorce issues on your own can be extremely difficult due to your feelings about the split. Mediators are neutral third parties who can step into these situations and use their dispute resolution skills to help you work through your differences without resorting to messy and costly courtroom litigation. Mediation can significantly speed up the divorce process while potentially helping you maintain a working relationship with your former spouse so you can effectively co-parent your children together. By incorporating the services of an experienced Colorado Springs divorce lawyer in addition to a seasoned mediator, you can ensure your agreement aligns with your preferences and best interests.
Which Topics Can Be Addressed During Divorce Mediation?
One of the major advantages of mediation is that it can be customized to meet the needs of your case. The scope of divorce mediation can be as broad or focused as you require. If you and your ex already agree on nearly all the terms of your divorce except for one challenging issue, you can use mediation to address this single point of contention. If you are struggling to find any common ground in your divorce proceedings, a mediator can help facilitate negotiations on all topics, including:
- Child custody, decision-making responsibilities, and permanent parenting plans.
- Fair distribution of marital property and assets.
- Spousal support payments, also known as alimony.
- Debt and liability allocation.
- Tax implications, management and control of shared business interests, and other complex financial considerations.
What Are the Potential Cost and Time Savings of Pursuing Mediation?
Divorce can be a lengthy and expensive process when litigation is involved. Contested divorces can take anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the number of hearings involved and the schedule of the local court. With the longer process comes a higher price tag, often in the thousands of dollars.
Mediation can provide a cost-effective alternative to a traditional litigated divorce. You and your former spouse will work out the terms of your divorce agreement during your mediation sessions with the assistance of a skilled mediator who can help you resolve disagreements. Couples without complex financial or family situations may only require a few sessions to sort through any areas of conflict. Even those with more complicated circumstances can see significant savings by pursuing mediation versus a drawn-out court process.
Once you have addressed all the necessary topics, your agreement will be drafted into an official document that can be presented to the court for approval. Because your divorce is uncontested, you will not require extensive court hearings to finalize your separation, saving you both time and money.
How Can Mediation Offer More Flexibility in Your Divorce Agreement?
No two couples have the same situation or goals. However, if you have unresolvable disagreements over essential topics and the court becomes involved in determining aspects of your divorce, it may result in divorce terms that are not well suited to your wishes or life. By engaging in mediation, you can retain more control over the process and utilize creative solutions to issues that arise.
Mediation enables couples to create personalized agreements tailored to their unique needs and circumstances rather than a one-size-fits-all court ruling. You may be able to negotiate a parenting plan that fits your work schedule or bargain for ownership of sentimental assets or properties that would otherwise be divided or sold. Additionally, you will have the time and ability to consult with outside experts like accountants, attorneys, or appraisers during the mediation process to understand the implications of potential agreements better. The nature of the mediation process gives you the space to speak with your legal team, gather information, and mull over choices so you can make considered, well-informed decisions on crucial topics.
How Does Mediation Help Preserve an Amicable Relationship?
As opposed to some states with fault-based divorce options, Colorado statutes only allow for no-fault divorces. This system can lead to less contentious divorces since the party seeking the separation does not have to demonstrate wrongdoing by the other spouse to obtain a dissolution of the marriage. While there are often strong emotions and disagreements surrounding the divorce process, many couples find it beneficial to remain on good terms following their split, particularly if they must navigate co-parenting together. Preserving your ability to work together when necessary can be vital for the continued well-being of your children.
Divorce mediation can support these goals and help you maintain a cordial relationship with your ex. Mediation focuses on finding common ground and working through issues with the help of a neutral facilitator familiar with dispute resolution strategies. The process encourages open communication and cooperation, leading to less animosity and better post-divorce relationships. Even if you have difficulty being in the same room as your ex, mediation can still be a viable option, as the process can be done in separate rooms, with the mediator passing information and negotiating between the two parties. Unlike public court hearings, your discussions during mediation sessions are confidential, allowing you to speak more freely.
Why Contact Our Law Firm if You Are Considering Divorce Mediation?
While there are numerous benefits to utilizing mediation during your divorce, it is still essential to have a knowledgeable lawyer on your side during the process. An experienced divorce lawyer from Liberty Law Center can advocate for your interests and ensure your mediated agreement is fair, enforceable, and correctly documented in accordance with state laws. We can help you understand the legal implications of key decisions and work with the mediator to craft appropriate solutions. In the event the mediation is unsuccessful in resolving all issues, our team can help transition the case smoothly to the court system and represent you in any subsequent litigation. To schedule a free consultation to learn how we can serve you during this challenging time, contact us online or call our Colorado Springs office at 719-602-7381.
