When most of us think of divorce, we think of courtrooms, a judge and two lawyers battling it out for custody and family heirlooms. In reality, however, divorce can be handled more calmly without that additional conflict. Divorce mediation allows you to settle all the terms of your divorce – including child custody, division of property and spousal maintenance – without a court battle. In fact, the Minnesota courts actually encourage all couples seeking divorce in our state to try mediation before litigation. This may leave you wondering whether you should give it a try.
Reasons To Consider Divorce Mediation First:
1. Less stress: A court battle is extremely stressful for both parties and can last many months before there is any resolution. Mediation takes less time than litigation (usually 6-8 weeks), it can be handled virtually if you prefer, and it costs less as well. Mediation also focuses on reducing conflict rather than increasing it. All of this adds up to a much less stressful process.
2. You make decisions: Mediation empowers you and your ex to make the decisions that are related to your divorce, your family and your future, rather than leaving those decisions in the hands of your attorney and a judge. You know your family’s needs better than the court system ever could, so you can craft a custody plan and divide your property equitably with the help of a trained mediator.
3. Confidential and flexible process: Your divorce settlement will look different than anyone else’s – because it has been created by you and your ex. You can develop an agreement that is flexible and meets your unique needs. In addition, this entire process is confidential, and you do not have to worry about sharing your deepest feelings with everyone in a courtroom.
4. Post-divorce mediation: Even after your divorce is final, you can use mediation to resolve issues that come up afterwards as well. This is especially common with child custody agreements that may need to change as kids get older and their needs change.
Minnesota Divorce Mediation Services
AMS Mediation specializes in divorce mediation services for couples in Minnesota. We understand that divorce is difficult and do not try to convince you that it is easy. But, we can help you navigate it with less stress, both emotionally and financially. Moving forward with your life and looking toward your future is much easier with mediation than litigation that tends to focus on the past. For more information or to set up a time for a free consultation, call us at 952-252-1492.
