If you are seeking to end your marriage, it may be possible to do so through a formal trial. However, instead of litigation, it may be better to dissolve your marriage with the help of a Michigan mediator. Let’s take a closer look at the potential benefits of settling your divorce outside of court.
Mediation is less expensive
One of the primary advantages of mediation is that you don’t necessarily need a lawyer to help with the process of reaching a settlement. However, it is generally a good idea to have a family law attorney review a proposed agreement before it goes into effect. In most cases, mediators charge about $1,000 for their services while divorce attorneys typically charge up to $10,000 to represent their clients.
Mediation can make it easy for your voice to be heard
A mediator’s job is to make sure that you are able to express yourself openly, honestly and without fear of retribution. The ability to express your emotions may make it easier to accept what is happening, and that may provide enough incentive to negotiate with your spouse in good faith. Furthermore, the ability to articulate what you need from a final settlement may allow you to create a deal that everyone can live with in a timely manner.
Mediation can be an effective way to resolve a divorce in an amicable, affordable and timely manner. An attorney may be able to review any agreement that is reached through informal negotiations to ensure that its terms conform to state law. If you share a child with your spouse, legal counsel may represent your interests during a child custody hearing. Typically, a judge must approve any child custody, visitation or support agreement reached during settlement talks.