Divorce in the U.S. is not exactly an uncommon occurrence. According to the American Psychological Association, or APA, approximately 40% to 50% of the nation’s marriages end in divorce. This holds true in spite of the fact that, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the divorce rate decreased between 2008 and 2018.
However, the process does not need to be painful. Neither does it need to happen without outside help. Mediation is an option for helping resolve difficult issues surrounding the dissolution of a marriage that may considerably ease the situation for all involved. It involves a third party mediator who aids in brainstorming ideas, keeping communication lines open and fostering empathy so separating couples may reach agreements faster, among other benefits.
1. Faster process
Mediation is actually generally faster than going to court. This is because the actual legal processes of obtaining a court date and dealing with appeals are time consuming.
2. Higher satisfaction
It also allows each of the separating individuals to come to mutually agreeable terms rather than having them dictated by another entity. The fact that they came up with the solutions also makes them more likely to comply with them. All of this correlates to a higher sense of satisfaction.
3. Lower cost
Court expenses may be extensive, while mediators are often available for more affordable prices. The faster turnaround also means a lower monetary investment than for longer proceedings.
The use of a mediator may prove especially beneficial when there exist hot tempers, strain or strife. It may help separating spouse remain on or at least part on amicable terms, as well as fostering an informal atmosphere more conducive to peaceful negotiation.