Mediation Can Benefit Those Going Through Divorce in Connecticut

October 20, 2012 (Press-News.org) Mediation Can Benefit Those Going Through Divorce in Connecticut

Divorce can be a horrible thing, filled with bitter arguments, wounded feelings and protracted court battles. However, more people are realizing the damage that using litigation for divorce can cause and are opting for divorce mediation instead. People in Connecticut considering divorce should be aware of what mediation is and some of the benefits it may offer over going to court for divorce.

Mediation Process

When a couple decides to use mediation for a divorce, they select a mediator trained in facilitating communication between divorcing spouses in order to reach agreements about the unresolved issues related to the divorce. Many mediators have training in diffusing the tension in high-conflict situations, so even couples who argue frequently can possibly benefit from mediation.

The mediator is a neutral third party who does not advocate for either spouse, or offer legal advice to either spouse. The mediator has an obligation to be fair to both spouses and help them reach resolutions acceptable to each party.

Spouses meet with the mediator for several sessions. Each spouse may be represented by attorneys, and the attorneys may also attend mediation sessions. The attorneys draft documents reflecting any agreements the spouses reach and file them with the court to make them legally binding. Everything people say in mediation is confidential, so if the parties cannot reach an agreement and do litigate, they may not use anything from the mediation sessions as evidence in court.

People can address a number of issues in mediation, including:
-Property division
-Spousal support
-Child support
-Child custody and visitation

Benefits of Mediation

Mediation can offer people several advantages to litigation for divorce. Those who have used mediation for their divorces report feeling more satisfied with the process and the result than those who went to court. When people mediate, they are the ones making decisions about their children and property, not the court. People feel more in control of their situations and are often less hurt and angry when they use mediation rather than litigation.

In addition, those who used mediation found it easier to get along with their spouses after the divorce than those who used litigation. Maintaining a civil relationship with an ex-spouse can be particularly important for those who had children and need to co-parent with their ex-spouses after divorce.

Mediation is usually much faster and less expensive than litigating a divorce. A mediated divorce can be completed in a matter of months, whereas litigated divorces may take longer than a year.

Consult an Attorney

Many people are turning to mediation in an effort to minimize the negative impact divorce can have. Those who have questions about divorce mediation should speak with a divorce attorney with broad experience handling mediation who can help them decide if mediation is right for them.

Article provided by Law Offices of Doris D'Ambrosio
Visit us at http://www.dorisdambrosiolaw.com