When you’re splitting up from your spouse, the legal issues can be complex and emotionally difficult. Fortunately, divorce mediation and collaborative divorce are two options that can reduce the stress, emotional distress and financial strain of divorce proceedings. Both are non-adversarial negotiation processes that can help spouses reach settlements on issues like spousal support, child custody and property division without court involvement. When choosing an attorney, make sure to ask about their experience with these divorce solutions and how they can assist you in reaching a resolution to your case.
In a typical mediation session, the parties and their attorneys meet with a neutral mediator to discuss their problem and what caused it. The mediator will then guide them in finding mutually agreeable resolutions to the issue at hand. This process can be particularly useful for couples who are able to communicate well and avoid animosity toward each other, as it will allow them to quickly and fairly resolve the legal matter at hand.
However, divorce mediation may not be appropriate if one spouse is controlling or bullying the other during sessions. It’s also not a good fit for spouses who have been the victim of domestic violence or abuse, as this can put their safety at risk. Additionally, divorce mediation may not be effective if there are children involved as it is generally best to keep them out of the negotiation process.
A collaborative divorce is an alternative to traditional litigation that involves a team of trained professionals that include family and divorce lawyers, a mediator and other support specialists such as child custody experts, financial professionals and mental health specialists. This team will work with the spouses to reduce conflict and help them focus on their futures, including how to co-parent their children in a healthy manner.
Collaborative divorce can be especially beneficial for spouses who are able to communicate well and who want to minimize the impact their separation will have on their children. It can also be a faster, more cost-effective and less stressful option than a traditional divorce trial.
When hiring a collaborative divorce or mediation lawyer, look for an attorney who is familiar with these alternatives to traditional divorce proceedings and has extensive experience in these areas. Additionally, it’s important to find an attorney who will be accessible via phone or email so that you can reach them when you need assistance. This is a key indicator of an attorney’s responsiveness and dedication to their clients.
The Law Office of Bartholomew & Wasznicky LLP helps couples with divorce proceedings as well as related pleadings such as restraining orders and child custody petitions. She is a skilled negotiator who can help you reach a successful resolution to your divorce matter and protect your rights. Contact her office in Sacramento, California today to schedule a consultation. The initial consultation is complimentary.
