When you think of divorce, you likely think first of a bitter court battle, high conflict between spouses, and a difficulty reaching any common ground. That is generally what is depicted in our society. However, the reality of divorce can be much different. Divorce mediation values compromise as the foundation of the process. Yes, compromise. After all, you and your spouse have shared a life together, you may share property, and you may share children. Battling in a courtroom just pins you against each other, increases the conflict and makes it difficult for future communication.
Mediation Uses A Collaborative Approach To Divorce
You still might be skeptical that compromise is possible in divorce proceedings. Many of our clients are pleasantly surprised by the effectiveness and ease of divorce mediation to resolve the major issues that you face including division of joint property, child custody and even deciding whether or not spousal/child maintenance is needed. Mediation generally takes 3-4 two-hour sessions over the course of a few months. Each session is led by a mediator, who serves as an impartial third party and helps facilitate productive discussion between the two of you. You are ultimately empowered to make the decisions related to your divorce. Your mediator does not make those decisions for you but creates a positive environment where compromise and discussion is possible.
Ultimately, it is in your family’s best interest to find ways to collaborate and compromise when it comes to settling the terms of your divorce. Mediated divorces have a higher success rate, meaning that the agreements are more likely to be kept and not violated. Compromise is nearly always better for your children and models positive behavior for them. It shows that you can get along, despite your differences. Mediation lays a strong foundation for future interactions as well, which is important after divorce. You may hope that your interactions with your ex will stop once your divorce is final, but in reality, these interactions just change.
Navigate Divorce With Less Conflict
AMS Mediation can help you compromise during the mediation process. We offer both virtual and in person mediation sessions so that you can resolve the issues between you and take those next steps toward your new life. If you have questions about the divorce process or would like to schedule a free consultation with our team, give us a call at 952-252-1492. We would be happy to help you navigate the divorce process with less stress and conflict.
