Why do so many couples choose divorce mediation?

There are many options available for those preparing for divorce in Ohio. Some couples qualify for dissolution. Dissolution is a special legal process available to those preparing for uncontested divorces. If spouses have agreed on the terms for financial matters and any parenting concerns, the family courts can approve a dissolution instead of overseeing a litigated divorce. For a small subset of divorcing couples, dissolution is an option because they have a prenuptial agreement clarifying the terms of their divorce. For others, collaborative divorce proceedings or mediation might be what makes uncontested dissolution a viable option. Mediation involves working with a neutral third-party professional to review divorce matters and reach an amicable agreement. What are some of the reasons that many people pursue mediation as they prepare for divorce in Ohio? The need for privacy Divorce leads to a lot of social exposure. People have to have awkward conversations with their family members, neighbors and employers. In some cases, they have to explore embarrassing issues in family court. For example, they might need to talk about substance abuse issues or domestic violence. Exploring those matters in open court can lead to a variety of secondary consequences, including reputation damage. Mediation is a confidential environment in which spouses can explore difficult marital issues without making them part of the public record. Control over the outcome One of the biggest benefits of divorce mediation is how it puts the couple in control of the outcome. In litigated divorces, judges end up deciding what happens with property, shared debts and child custody arrangements. If couples succeed during mediation, they can set those terms themselves. They can have total control and can prioritize obtaining specific terms that matter the most to them. If mediation is successful, the spouses sign a binding agreement which they submit to the courts as part of the dissolution process. Even though they have to work with an outside professional, mediation often results in a more affordable divorce because the spouses spend less time in family court. The entire process may also be faster than waiting for time in court to litigate. Exploring alternatives to litigating a divorce can help those facing the end of a marriage plan the best path forward. Mediation is often a viable solution for those who prefer to avoid the expense and exposure of litigated divorce.The post Why do so many couples choose divorce mediation? first appeared on Baker and Wick, Attorneys at Law.