Going through divorce, you may wonder if you should skip litigation and the court battles. This can actually benefit many people, saving time, money and the publication of personal information.
Mediation offers one popular alternative to litigation. But how does it work, and what role does a mediator play in your divorce?
No-pressure opinions and advice
Forbes discusses the benefits associated with mediating a divorce, but what exactly do mediators do? In short, they act as overseers for the discussions of your divorce proceedings.
Unlike judges or even arbitrators, mediators do not have any legal power over you or your spouse. They cannot make decisions for you. This often takes pressure away from discussion, as there is no oppressive authority figure present.
Mediators also offer a unique perspective: a third party with no bias or attachment to anyone in the divorce. This allows them to see things from an angle that you and your partner likely would not. They can offer opinions and advice that you would not have discovered or thought of on your own.
Providing de-escalation
They also have training in de-escalation and in managing discussions and debates. In essence, they ensure that you and your partner both have an equitable amount of time and space to talk, and that neither of you feels spoken over or ignored.
If things get heated, they can also step in and bring the situation back down to manageable levels. Thus, they provide a safe and structured environment for people to work through any remaining struggles they may have in their divorce and reach an agreeable final arrangement.