Divorce Mediation Save Resources
Like many challenging ventures in life, divorce is a process. You can’t decide you want a divorce one day and expect to be divorced the next. For some, this process can drag on for months or even years, all the while wasting time and money. There are different approaches to getting divorced, and no approach is one-size-fits-all. Your divorce is going to be a unique process, just like your relationship with your soon-to-be ex-spouse is unique. A mediated divorce is one approach that many couples turn to when they want to save resources. A seasoned Colorado mediation lawyer can explain how mediation works and help determine if it is the right approach for ending your marriage.
What is a Mediated Divorce?
A mediated divorce is a form of alternative dispute resolution. In a mediated divorce, the couple meets together with a neutral third party who is trained in mediation to reach an agreement on issues within the divorce. The mediator does not make decisions. Instead, they help the couple collaborate respectfully. Mediated divorces often help to divorce couples reach agreements on the division of assets, child custody, child support, and spousal support. During the mediation process, couples are empowered and can remain in control of their divorce. It can also help the couple build communication and negotiation skills that they can rely on for years to come.
Mediation in Colorado is voluntary. Even when going through a mediated divorce, you still want to have a mediation lawyer. A mediator cannot give you legal advice and cannot be your advocate, whereas your attorney can.
Divorce Mediation Saves Resources
Traditional divorces consume valuable time and money. They can also tie up the court system. When you elect a mediated divorce, both you and your spouse can be in a better financial position when you emerge from the divorce. You can also complete the mediation process much faster than pursuing one in family court. There are several steps in the mediation process. However, some couples can skip the steps or will move quickly through them. These steps include:
- Introduction stage: The mediator observes how the couple communicates and determines the issues that need to be resolved.
- Information-gathering stage: This stage involves collecting financial, property, and other information essential to a divorce. Sometimes this stage is the longest.
- Framing stage: The couple determines individually their ultimate desires and goals for the divorce. The mediator may meet with each spouse individually at this time.
- Negotiating stage: The spouses share their interests, and the options to address the issues are laid out. Choices will be narrowed down as the couple comes closer to reaching a negotiated agreement.
- Concluding stage: A settlement is agreed upon, and each spouse has a copy to review.
Instead of waiting for hearing dates in a traditional divorce, a mediated divorce is dependent upon the preferences of the couple and the schedules of the couple and the mediator.
Ready to Explore Your Options for Mediation? Call a Skilled Aurora Mediation Lawyer
If you are ready to learn more about how a mediated divorce can save you time and money, don’t hesitate to contact a well-versed Aurora experienced lawyer. A lawyer can review your circumstances and let you know if a mediated divorce could be a viable option in the dissolution of your marriage.
Schedule your consultation today by calling the CNL Law Firm, PLLC at (720) 370-2171, or complete our online contact form. We are here for you 24/7.
