Family mediation is a voluntary process that is less expensive than court proceedings. It is also less stressful for children and parents.
Often, families who go through divorce can’t agree on big issues like where the child should live and how much time they should spend with each parent. In such cases, solicitors recommend family mediation.
It is a voluntary process
Family mediation is a voluntary process and each party can choose whether to mediate their disputes. In most cases, a judge will encourage both parties to participate in mediation. However, the process can be stopped at any time by either party.
Unlike court proceedings, mediation sessions can be held at a location and time convenient to both parties. This flexibility allows parents to discuss various options and explore the possibilities of their settlement. It also allows them to avoid expensive litigation.
In addition, mediation is less stressful for children. Children are exposed to a lot of conflict in their homes and this can have a negative impact on their mental and emotional health. A good mediator will encourage parents to work together and find solutions that are in the best interests of their children. This will help both parents to co-parent effectively and provide a positive example for their children. A mediator may also suggest that each parent have a legal professional review the final agreement before it is signed.
It is less expensive than court proceedings
If you’re looking for an alternative to costly court proceedings, family mediation might be the way to go. This process focuses on the needs of children and allows parents to develop solutions that work for their specific situations. It also encourages parents to share parenting responsibilities and create a shared parenting plan. The result is a more interactive co-parenting relationship and less conflict between parents.
Mediation is typically 20-50% cheaper than a trial. It is also quicker and more flexible, allowing you to schedule meetings with your mediator on dates that are convenient for both parties. This means you can resolve your case without having to take time off of work or spend years in litigation. Moreover, the process is voluntary and consensual, so you retain decision-making power. In addition, mediation sessions can be completed in a single day or over a series of short sessions. Both sides can also choose to bring their lawyers to family mediation, but it is not required.
It is less stressful for children
Family mediation can help to reduce the emotional and financial stress of divorce. It also places children at the centre of the process. It is less stressful for children than taking a case to court, because it does not put their private lives in the public arena. Moreover, it does not encourage either party to fight over trivial issues. This makes the whole process less stressful for everyone involved. It is not uncommon for a couple who began their session in utter tension to end it reminiscing about shared happy memories.
In mediation, you and your spouse will make decisions instead of leaving it up to a stranger in a courtroom. This can help you preserve future parenting relationships and avoid the negative impact of contested litigation on your children. This process also allows parents to create customized solutions that meet their specific needs. This includes the schedule for when the children will spend time with each parent and how decision-making responsibilities will be divided.
It is less stressful for parents
Unlike litigation, mediation is confidential and sessions are scheduled to accommodate the schedules of both parties. The mediator helps parents to identify issues and explore possible solutions to those issues through facilitated discussion. Once an agreement is reached, the mediator prepares a document for signature by both parties. This document is called a mediation agreement or memorandum of understanding and can be used in court if an application for a Consent Order is made later.
Litigation can be highly stressful for parents, especially when children are involved. It can also be more expensive and take much longer than family mediation.
Family mediation sessions are often shorter and scheduled according to the availability of both parties. However, it is important to attend all the sessions and be ready to discuss all issues. Avoid arguing during the session and keep any personal insults or negative comments to a minimum. This will help to ensure that the process is as efficient and cost-effective as possible.
