When to Consider Mediation

After deciding that a divorce is the best option, most couples want to resolve the legal requirements as quickly as possible. Moving on with life after an emotionally draining process is one of the first steps towards healing, but unfortunately not all divorces are settled quickly. The average uncontested divorce in Florida takes approximately 12 months, and it is not uncommon for a complicated divorce to require 24 months of negotiations. When a divorce is taking longer than either party anticipated it might be time to consider mediation. The mediation process gives divorcing couples a chance to maintain their privacy while obtaining the divorce that they desire.

What is Mediation

Mediation gives a divorcing couple an opportunity to discuss certain disputes with a neutral third party. The mediator is not able to take sides or tell both parties how they must resolve the dispute, instead the mediator facilitates and moderates the conversations. Mediation in Florida focuses on easing the communication process by overcoming obstacles that previously caused negotiations to break down or completely deteriorate. The mediator is not able to provide legal advice, counseling, or any form of therapy.

An Affordable Solution

Divorce is an expensive process that is largely determined by the complexity of the case and the number of issues that must be resolved. At an initial consultation an attorney will provide an estimate based on the case information that you provide. The estimate may change as time goes on due to the cost of filing fees, hours devoted to your case, and other variables. Mediation gives both parties an opportunity to save money by leading to a faster resolution. The sooner the divorce is concluded the less money is spent by both parties. Divorce cases that require litigation are typically more expensive because of the increased legal costs associated with the preparations.

Helps Resolve Minor Disagreements

It is not unusual for an otherwise uncontested divorce to become a contested divorce over one or two minor disagreements. Mediation gives a divorcing couple an opportunity to resolve minor issues without a lengthy court battle.  The mediation process gives both adults a chance to discuss their stance and come to a mutually beneficial agreement that allows the divorce to go forward.  Couples are often more willing to adhere to decisions reached through mediation than those decided by a judge.  Mediation also makes it easier for both parties to interact with each other following the divorce.

Consulting an Attorney

Though mediation in Florida gives couples a chance to work together to determine a divorce settlement a skilled divorce attorney is still necessary. The attorney you choose will represent your best interests and provide you with the legal advice you need to obtain a legal divorce. Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. is an aggressive divorce attorney who has participated in many mediation proceedings. She has helped her clients save time and money while avoiding stressful litigation. Conveniently located in Fort Lauderdale contact her office today at 954-945-7591 to schedule a consultation to discuss your case today.

Resources:

flcourts.org/resources-and-services/alternative-dispute-resolution/mediation.stml

floridabar.org/tfb/tfbconsum.nsf/48e76203493b82ad852567090070c9b9/50c0b911a9cb28fd85256b2f006c5ba9#Untitled%20Section_9