Rather than taking a divorce case to trial,
mediation almost always the way to expedite the process. You can avoid court and
the fees, and you can have your attorney act as a neutral facilitator
of the process. Every marriage will have its own unique circumstances,
and some may or may not be able to go through mediation. The caveat? Both
parties must be open and willing to settle. If one partner stubbornly
refuses to come to some form of agreement, taking the case may be necessary.
We at Hager, Schwartz & Ross, P.A. are not just divorce attorneys,
but we are also efficient mediators. Before taking your case to the courts,
we recommend you come to us for a free consultation to see if mediation
will be a good option .
How the Mediation Process Works
Mediation reduces the combative and contentious aspects of divorce; it’s
not a “me versus them” feeling. Think of yourself as one side
of a triangle, your spouse is the other side, and the mediator as the
final point. Rather than trading arguments like a tennis match, the mediator
can intervene and soften any blows to help each side see eye to eye.
Here are some other advantages of mediation:
- All conversations are confidential
- You are in control from start to finish
- Mediators work to advance your interests and needs
- You can avoid the hassle of trials and court fees
- Divorces can be settled in a timely manner
- Facilitates communication between you and your spouse
Some mediation meetings happen with you and your spouse in the same room,
or during separate sessions. These will depend on your preferences for
mediation. A mediator cannot tell you what to do, but can make suggestions
based on the law, what will be more of an advantage for you, and negotiate
on your behalf.
Understanding the Limitations
It goes without saying that if you and your spouse have hotly contested
issues that cannot be resolved through mediation alone, then it may not
be the right option for you. For example, if you blame your spouse for
the end of the marriage, or if you spouse believes you are to blame, either
of you may harbor bitter feelings that underlie the situation and can
throw a wrench into the whole process.
Financial matters are another important matter, as with any divorce. If
there is a lot of money at stake—as an example, you brought in more
income during the course of the marriage—you will more keen to protect
your interests.
Ready to begin mediation? Contact us now!
The reasons above are exactly why you should call upon our South Florida
family law attorneys at Hager, Schwartz & Ross, P.A. to negotiate
a settlement that won’t leave you at a disadvantage. We do everything
in our power, though, to avoid a trial, if at all possible. However, if
after all efforts have been exhausted, and mediation cannot resolve your
divorce, then our litigation expertise can also help you if your case
becomes a matter for the courts.
When you are ready to begin, be sure to
call us for a free consultation. Once it is determined that we can move forward, we can be with you every
step of the way.