Why Divorcing Couples Should Consult Lake County Divorce Mediators
When it comes to divorce, things can get ugly quickly. It’s not anyone’s fault, really, but resentments and failed expectations for the marriage can lead to both individuals butting heads and make the process more complicated and stressful than it already is. That’s where Lake County divorce mediators come in. It can provide a healthy space and help much get resolved that may not have been possible previously. They can also serve as a good basis for future communications. Settlements that are mediated usually have a higher compliance rate since both parties agreed to the settlement in mediation prior. They can also be far less expensive than battling out your issues through lawyers, whose retainers alone can be thousands of dollars. Read on to find out more about divorce mediation and if it may be a good option for you.
What Is Divorce Mediation?
Divorce mediation is a process that lets separating and divorcing couples to resolve their issues, make life plans, and decide on choices and planning for their future. A family law mediator is present and they will guide the communication between the two Lake County individuals by allowing each party time to speak, asking questions to clarify communication, and asking individuals to either restate their point or explain it further. In the process, the mediator will also inform both parties about legal issues, how their problems may be perceived by lawyers and judges, and ways to solve and work through issues. They may refer couples to third party experts as well.
How Does the Lake County Divorce Mediators Process Work?
When choosing mediation, the two people involved will meet with the mediator for mediation sessions. These typically last an hour to two hours. In the first session, the mediator and the couple will talk about what issues need to be discussed, which points will be addressed first, and make choices about what information will be needed and shared. The two individuals will gather relevant financial data as well as opinions of experts as needed. In following sessions, the mediator will guide discussions about the issues and facilitate a compromise. The sessions end when agreement is reached on all of the issues. The mediator then drafts the agreement so each party and their attorneys can review it. Then the mediator helps both parties in paper filing if they are an attorney as well, and files disclosure documents, agreements, judgments, and the final papers that will be filed with the court.
How Long Does Working with Divorce Mediators Take?
Mediation varies depending on how long it takes the two parties to come to an agreement. How the couples interact and how quickly they compromise on issues will determine how many sessions are required. An average mediation will go for up to four mediation sessions, but complicated cases may take up to six months to reach an agreement successfully.
Who Does Mediation Work Best For?
Mediation usually works best for couples that have decided to separate or divorce and have decided mutually to separate. A joint decision to be apart and go through that process usually has less resentment and concern about ‘winning’. Spouses that want to stay on good terms, do not want the other spouse back or to punish them, and have a vested interest in coming to a clear decision over various issues(for instance, wanting to put the children through as little grief as possible) have a great result with mediation. If you are intimidated by your spouse and there is a problem with substance or physical/emotional/mental abuse in your relationship, mediation may be very difficult and even stressful to go through and may not be your best option.
At the end of the day, it’s a good idea to choose the option that will work the best for you and your spouse. Seeing a divorce mediator isn’t for everyone, but it can be a valuable choice for many separating and divorcing spouses. Lake County Divorce Mediators can help you and your spouse discuss your issues in a safe and positive environment and help you come to an amicable agreement.