Divorce Mediation

Once a couple has decided to part ways, the divorce can happen through traditional litigation or the couple can decide to consult a mediator. The role of mediation is to provide non-cohabitating couples a more satisfying alternative to litigation, one less likely to affect the adjustment of the spouses or the children adversely. Whereas litigation typically involves two attorneys (both of which must be paid) who are on the side of the person who hired them. A therapeutic mediator is only on the side of compromise.

It is well documented in the research that mediation is a more useful option than protracted litigation and can serve divorcing couples in ways that the adversarial process cannot.

Here are some excellent reasons to choose mediation over litigation. All of these reasons are based on research:

• Mediation has a more positive effect on spousal relationships
• I am an expert in human development and will work to increase parents’ understanding of the children’s needs at each age and developmental milestone.
• Children are positively affected by a cooperative and supportive relationship between partners who are divorcing.
• Mediation participants are generally more emotionally satisfied than litigation participants
• While litigation tends to compound adjustment, mediation increases the adjustment process and the long-term welfare of divorcing spouses.
• While mediation is a compromise, the benefits outweigh the cost.
• Participants often feel more empowered and self-determined when they have created their own divorce agreement, increasing feelings of fairness.
• Mediation is much less expensive.
• Mediation is a much faster process.