How Does Divorce Mediation Work in Florida?
One of the most emotionally trying times of your life will be your divorce. There are several challenges you need to face. Differences in how to divide your assets, how to raise your children, and various support payments can cause bitter disputes among couples. In some cases, these disputes are unresolvable on your own and will require court intervention to resolve. However, most Florida counties require couples to at least try mediation before they take their divorce to court. In this article, the Clearwater, FL divorce mediators at Cairns Law, P.A. will discuss the mediation process for divorce.
Understanding mediation in Clearwater, FL
Mediation is the process by which divorcing couples can work with a neutral third party (the mediator) to resolve their disputes and reach an agreement on issues concerning the distribution of the marital estate, spousal support (alimony), child custody, and child support. In Pinellas County, mediation is required of most couples before proceeding to trial. So, you’ll want to make the most of it while you have the opportunity.
Mediation facilitates open communication
One of the major advantages of mediation is that it promotes constructive communication between the divorcing parties. During a courtroom battle, each side presents their case in an adversarial manner. Mediation, on the other hand, encourages couples to discuss their issues calmly and respectfully, which can be extremely beneficial when children are involved.
Mediation emphasizes compromise
Litigation is a battle between divorcing parties and their attorneys that takes place in the courtroom. Mediation, on the other hand, emphasizes negotiation and compromise. The mediator guides the conversation and encourages both parties to consider the other’s side. This often leads to better solutions than the ones that judges apply to divorce cases.
The benefits of mediation in Florida
The mediation process has considerable benefits over litigation. Firstly, mediated divorces tend to be substantially cheaper than those that play out in the courtroom. One of the reasons they’re cheaper is that they take less time to complete. In a litigated divorce, each side has their own attorney and pays for expert witnesses. This can drive up the cost of your divorce considerably. Judges take more time to decide key matters related to your divorce. Each dispute requires its own hearing. The court will hear arguments presented by both sides. This can drive up the cost of attorney’s fees and court costs.
Amicable resolutions are more likely with a mediated divorce. If you have children, then your former spouse will be a part of your life for the foreseeable future. You will need to deal with this person on a regular basis, so you want to ensure that all disputes are resolved during the divorce process so they do not linger.
Lastly, couples have considerably more control over the outcome of a mediated divorce. It’s the judge who makes all the decisions in a litigated divorce. Mediation allows you to keep the decision-making power in your hands.
Talk to a Clearwater, FL Divorce Mediation Attorney Today
Cairns Law, P.A. represents the interests of Clearwater couples during their divorce. Call our Clearwater family lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin discussing your next steps right away.
