Not all divorces must take place in the courtroom. There are a variety of other methods available for spouses to participate in that allow them to avoid the process of litigation. This can include mediation. Continue reading below to learn more about this process and contact an experienced New Jersey divorce attorney for guidance when facing these situations.
What is Mediation?
There are many spouses who are able to work together in their divorce in order to come to conclusions regarding the future of their marital issues. Those who can do so may benefit from the process of mediation. This allows spouses to take part in negotiations that allow them to make decisions regarding their marital issues. These discussions are guided by an unbiased third-party mediator whose purpose is to help spouses make these decisions, not to make them for the couple. Conversations that take place in mediation can be in relation to matters such as child custody, child support, the division of assets, and alimony.
What are the Benefits of Mediation?
The following are various benefits to using divorce mediation:
- Control: Spouses have control over making their own decisions instead of allowing a judge to do so for them.
- Confidentiality: Mediation is confidential and the information that is discussed in the meetings cannot be shared or used against either party involved.
- Speed: Mediation tends to be quicker than other divorce methods. The length is dependent upon the couple and the issues they have to resolve.
- Cost: Trials can be expensive for the couple and the state of New Jersey. Mediation is a more cost-effective process.
- Choice: Spouses choose to participate in mediation, making the process entirely voluntary. It can end at any time.
- Family: Mediation can benefit any couple that has family involved in the situation, as it promotes healthy conversations instead of hostility.
How Does Mediation End?
The process of mediation can end when spouses conclude their conversations and reach agreements regarding the terms of their divorce. Once this happens, the mediator can draft a Memorandum of Understanding that outlines the decisions made by both parties. This will be given to each attorney who can then create a Matrimonial Settlement Agreement. After this document is signed, the spouses can go to court as an uncontested case where a judge can finalize the divorce. When this is done, the process is officially over.
Contact our Firm
Ross and Calandrillo, LLC is a full-service divorce, family, and real estate law firm located in Mountainside, New Jersey. For strong legal representation in all of your divorce or family law matters, contact Ross and Calandrillo, LLC to schedule a consultation.
