One of the most emotionally challenging aspects of getting divorced is feeling helpless, as though you lack control over your situation and your life in general. This is why divorce mediation has increased in popularity over the past few years. Through mediating your divorce in the state of Washington, you and your soon-to-be ex can plan your own lives and feel more in control of what happens to you both following the dissolution of your marriage.
How does divorce mediation work?
You, your spouse and your mediator – a neutral third party – will meet in several mediation sessions. These sessions are typically between one hour and two hours long.
In your first meeting, all three parties will identify the issues that must be discussed, as well as which issues need to be discussed first. Then, you will determine what information you and your spouse must gather. Before your second meeting, you can work on gathering this relevant information, which may be financial data or the opinion of an expert such as an appraiser or accountant.
All meetings after your first one will allow you and your spouse to discuss how to resolve matters involving property division or child custody, for example. Then, once you and your future ex have reached an agreement on all of the topics of discussion, the mediator will put together an agreement for you both to review.
What exactly does the mediator do during the sessions?
The mediator plays the important role of ensuring that both you and your spouse get the opportunity to speak without being interrupted. The mediator might also ask questions that will help you or the other party to clarify a point you have made. Your mediator can also explain how the issues you are discussing may be seen by judges.
Why choose mediation?
The benefit of mediating a divorce is that, unlike with divorce litigation, you do not have to appear in court. Therefore, you can keep the details of the dissolution of your marriage private and avoid the stress and time associated with going to trial. A knowledgeable attorney in the state of Washington can walk you through the mediation process and help you to be prepared to pursue your fair share of assets, ensuring that your rights are protected each step of the way.