Divorce or family mediation is an alternative option for resolving disputes during a separation. An independent mediator is assigned to help a couple towards resolving issues such as division of property and assets, child arrangements, child support, and more. Most importantly, mediation helps couples reach a resolution without having to go to court.
There are many reasons why mediation is better than going to court. In this article, discover why you should consider mediation before progressing your disputes to the courtroom.
Cost-effective
Mediation is less expensive than going to court. The cost of hiring a mediator is significantly less than what you’d pay in court and lawyer fees, plus it will usually be split between you and your spouse. Saving money through mediation can prevent either party from suffering financially and put you both in a position to start new chapters in your own lives.
Quick to resolve
Mediation typically takes a few weeks to reach a resolution. This is far quicker than typical court proceedings, which can sometimes take years to resolve. The difficulty with court cases is that the proceedings require a number of Court hearings to take place. Due to the volume of cases in Court, hearings can take months to be listed.
Voluntary
The judgement of a court is taken out of your hands. In mediation, the mediator doesn’t have the authority to force a decision. Instead, the resolution will be dependent on you and your spouse reaching an agreement. This means that no decision can be made without your approval and ultimately you have control of the outcome.
Promotes amicability
Courts pit spouses against one another, whereas mediation relies on cooperation and good faith in order to reach a mutual agreement. Cooperative mediation typically results in an amicable separation, which is in the best interest of all parties — especially any children that may be involved.
Confidential
Going through a separation is an extremely personal affair that you may not wish to make public. Unlike court appearances, mediation is closed off and can be kept entirely private between you, your spouse and the mediator. Whatever is said in the meeting will be kept confidential and can’t influence court proceedings later down the line if an agreement can’t be met.
Dodds Solicitors Mediation Centre in Leicester offers mediation for a range of disagreements, including family mediation and business mediation. Whether you’re looking for a quick, confidential mediation in hopes of reaching an amicable settlement, or you need full legal representation for a dispute in court, we can help.
With over 30 years’ experience as trained solicitors, you can be confident that we’ll provide trusted, professional services that will guide you towards a favourable outcome and help you start the next chapter of your life.
To contact us call 0116 201 8566 or email us at enquiries@dodds-solicitors.co.uk