Mediation May be the Best Process for Ending Your Marriage

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If you and your spouse have decided on divorce, you are probably not looking forward to litigation, thinking it too intrusive a process with the possibility of a bitter ending.

If you and your soon-to-be-ex can work together, mediation may be the best way for you to manage your divorce. There are a number of benefits to this method as compared to a courtroom procedure.

How it works

Mediation allows couples to take charge of their divorce and make their own decisions that ultimately result in a satisfactory settlement. They work with a mediator, a neutral third party, in a more relaxed, non-adversarial atmosphere outside of court.

How the mediator helps

The mediator has several tasks:

  •         Facilitates communication between the parties
  •         Offers information about the Colorado legal system
  •         Explains how judges or other attorneys will view issues
  •         Ensures that each party can speak without interruption
  •         Helps clarify points to ensure complete understanding
  •         Maintains fair discussion on sensitive subjects such as spousal or child support
  •         Proposes alternatives for resolving sticking points
  •         Refers the couple to third-party professionals as appropriate

A look at benefits

Mediation is a much faster way to handle your divorce because the court process can go on for months if not years. It is also a much less expensive alternative, always an important consideration. Because the process is one of cooperation and the parties control the outcome without interference by a judge, there is considerably less stress than there is in a courtroom. Studies show that mediation is also less stressful for the children of the marriage.

Looking forward

In addition to constructing a suitable divorce settlement, the mediation process has another objective: It serves as a model for amicable future communication, especially if the participants are still raising children. If you and your spouse feel that you can work together, you will probably find that mediation is a peaceful, respectful, and effective way to end your marriage and begin a new chapter in your life.