Pros and Cons of Mediation
Pros and Cons of Divorce Mediation in California
Just as many reasons exist for one couple divorcing to use mediation as reasons exist for another couple not to use mediation. Here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider before you decide whether or not to try divorce mediation in California.
Pros of Divorce Mediation
Mediation can help you navigate the issues. Even when it’s emotionally hard to do so, a mediator can help move the negotiations along and keep you on track.
Mediation allows you to better control the outcome. You and your former partner can determine what the divorce agreement says and does as opposed to a judge doing it for them.
Mediation saves you money. Though you will still likely have to pay the costs of mediation, those costs do not compare to what the costs of litigation would involve. For example, you may have experts provide their knowledge and testimony on things like financial matters and co-parenting. In mediation, you would share the costs while at trial, you would pay for your own.
Mediation saves you time. Mediation tends to resolve your divorce faster than litigation, which is reason enough for many divorcing couples to choose it.
Mediation lets you start fresh without bitterness. Whether you have kids or not, mediation is a way to negotiate your divorce in a setting where you can be both frank and civil with your soon-to-be ex-spouse. By trying to minimize bitterness, you can start your post-divorce life on a more positive note.
Cons of Divorce Mediation
Mediation still costs money. Mediation is not free, even if court-ordered, you may still have to cover the mediator’s fees.
Mediation is not suitable for everyone. If there’s an imbalance of power between the couple, like one spouse routinely bullies the other spouse or engages in any type of abuse, mediation probably is not an adequate means to a divorce.
Mediators cannot provide legal advice. If you want representation, you still need to hire your own lawyer. Representation during mediation is just as important as it would be in litigation. You want to make sure any divorce agreement is fair and upholds your interests.
Contact a Divorce Lawyer in Riverside, San Diego and San Jose/Santa Clara County Today
Divorce happens. At The Wright Legal team, our divorce attorney wants to help you obtain a fair and just divorce through the most effective and efficient means possible. Divorce mediation works well in many scenarios. Contact us by filling out the online form or calling us at (909) 313-0944 to schedule a 25 Minute Free Consultation. We will discuss your options in an open and direct manner to help you make an informed decision on how best to handle your own divorce in California.