When a married couple decides to part ways, going to the court is perhaps among the steps they will make, especially when it comes to deciding matters regarding property division, child custody and support, alimony, and other divorce-related issues. At times, however, divorcing couples don’t need to involve the court when they can resolve these issues between themselves with help from a neutral third party; known as mediation.
Court involvement isn’t the only way to reach an amicable separation, as North Carolina law requires divorcing couples to attempt mediation in resolving any differences both parties may have. Mediation actually has numerous benefits, especially if both you and your spouse are initially willing to cooperate with the court-appointed mediator.
Cost-Effective and Often Quite Successful
Mediation comes with a long list of benefits, but in the end, this method not only helps divorcing couples save on legal fees, but often results in a resolution that’s more favorable for both parties. Divorcing couples who have undergone a successful mediation have a better chance of retaining more control in the final resolution of their case, something that they may not be able to achieve if they choose to argue their case in court.
Hesitation with Mediation
While mediation is one method that’s growing popularity all over the country, some divorcing couples are still hesitant to take this approach. This is partly because of misconceptions about the process.
For one, some divorcing couples think that mediation is another form of couples’ therapy, but in reality, this method isn’t focused on fixing marital problems. The main goal of mediation, according to this Raleigh family attorney, is to help divorcing couples reach an agreement on common divorce-related issues. Furthermore, mediation allows couples to keep personal issues more private, enabling them to resolve different matters without bringing their personal matters into a public court.
Mediation is Not for Everyone
Mediation may be required for divorcing couples in Raleigh and across North Carolina, but in reality it is not a solution for everyone. For instance, mediation might not be the best course of action if you have been a victim of domestic violence. You should also think twice before agreeing to further mediation if your spouse has an alcohol or drug problem, since that could impair their ability to make sensible decisions.
Should you and your spouse consider mediation as a method to reach a fair settlement, it’s recommended to seek help from a Raleigh divorce attorney who has a solid background in family law. The attorneys at Kurtz & Blum, PLLC will help represent during this type of mediation since we have enough extensive experience in protecting your rights and looking out for your best interests.
Sources:
- Don’t be afraid to mediate – part one, Lexology
- Will Divorce Mediation Work for You?, Nolo
