When you and your spouse have separated, you may be unsure how to move forward with the divorce. Mediation is one avenue that brings benefits for many couples, especially those who prefer an amicable split.
Review these benefits of divorce mediation if you plan to end your marriage.
Lower cost
While every case is different, divorce through mediation usually costs less than going through the court process. Divorce magazine reports that nationwide, couples spend an average of just 10% of the cost of divorce litigation when they work with a professional mediator. That’s the equivalent of cutting expenses from $10,000 to $1,000.
Reduced family impact
According to a report in Psychology Today, divorce litigation tends to have a greater emotional impact on children than mediation does. Divorce in court is especially tough on kids when the process becomes drawn-out. In some cases, children may have to appear before the judge, which can be a difficult experience in itself. Mediation can help alleviate some of these issues.
Decreased stress
Most people who go through mediation report lower stress levels than those who take their divorces to court. Often, you can create and finalize a divorce agreement in just four months with the help of a mediator, compared to at least nine months on average to go through the litigation process.
Mediation can allow you to end your marriage on your own terms. If you think this solution may work for your family, the first step is to find a professional mediator. This person will help you and your spouse communicate and negotiate fairly with one another.