4 Benefits of Choosing Mediation for Your Divorce

by McConnell Family Law

Divorce is a deeply emotional process that often leads to disagreements on crucial issues such as child custody and property division. When couples find it challenging to resolve these matters on their own, turning to the court for decisions may not be the most ideal solution. This is where the expertise of a Connecticut mediation lawyer comes into play. By opting for mediation, couples can benefit from the guidance and support of a skilled professional who understands the complexities of their marriage and family dynamics, helping them navigate through the separation with empathy and fairness.

A Connecticut mediation lawyer can assist by creating a safe and neutral environment for constructive discussions, enabling both parties to express their concerns and interests openly. Mediation offers a more collaborative approach to divorce, empowering couples to maintain control over the decision-making process while reducing the stress and financial burden associated with lengthy court battles. At McConnell Family Law Group, our Connecticut mediation lawyers may be able to help facilitate compromises and find mutually satisfactory solutions. With the guidance of our team, couples can work towards resolving their differences and reaching agreements that prioritize the best interests of their children and protect their individual rights and assets. Contact us today at (203) 541-5520 to schedule a consultation.

Mediation is Often Easier on Children

There are situations where a child will have to speak to a judge to decide whether he or she would like to live with their mother or father. Forcing a child to make this type of decision in this environment can be extremely difficult and even traumatizing.

In mediation, the parties may be better able to determine where the child would like to live, how the living arrangements will affect the child and parents, and examine various other factors about child custody. The court will not do this type of in-depth, extensive review. On the other hand, the couple can come to a reasonable solution after collaborating and thinking through everything during a mediation.

Mediation Involves Less Conflict than Going to Court

Mediation is all about finding a solution that works for everyone. Litigation is an adversarial process. It can be extremely emotionally draining for many people. Mediation is far less confrontational and helps the couple find common ground. In fact, you do not even have to see your spouse in this process if you do not want to do so.

If you are considering mediation for your Connecticut divorce, contact Attorney Paul McConnell. Having an attorney there for you during the process will help ensure that your rights are protected at all times.

Mediation is Often More Cost-Effective than Litigation

Going through an entire trial is expensive for everyone involved. Trials can last days or weeks, depending on the case. Preparation for appearing in court can take months.

Mediation provides a faster, less expensive way to finalize your divorce.

Mediation Often Allows The Couple to Craft Their Own Solutions

It is virtually impossible to present every consideration you may have regarding custody, visitation, or property division to the court. As such, the court cannot fully understand your concerns in a divorce. Only you have experienced your relationship and have a feel for how particular arrangements between you and your spouse may work out.

Mediation allows you and your spouse to craft a plan that will work best for both of you. The benefit of having a neutral third-party involved is that you do not have to work directly with your spouse to make these arrangements. Instead, both of you will hear from a third party, who is often the voice of reason in getting your points across to your spouse.

4 Benefits of Choosing Mediation for Your DivorceDescription
Easier on childrenMediation provides a less traumatic environment for children, allowing parents to determine living arrangements and consider the child’s preferences and well-being.
Involves less conflict than going to courtMediation promotes collaboration and finding common ground, reducing emotional strain and confrontation compared to litigation. It offers the option of limited interaction with the spouse during the process.
More cost-effective than litigationMediation is faster and more cost-effective than a trial, saving time and resources for both parties involved in the divorce.
Allows the couple to craft their own solutionsMediation enables personalized solutions tailored to the unique circumstances of the divorcing couple. It recognizes their intimate knowledge of their relationship and allows for unbiased guidance from a neutral third party.

How to Prepare for Divorce Mediation

To effectively prepare for divorce mediation in Connecticut, it is crucial to be well-organized and ready. Adequate preparation will result in a smoother process, instill confidence, and prevent unnecessary delays and expenses. Here are the essential steps to get yourself ready for the mediation session:

Gather Required Documents: A skilled mediator will provide you with a list of essential items, mostly documents, that you need to bring to the initial session. It’s likely that both you and your spouse will be asked to submit specific documents in advance.

Address Key Topics: The mediator will utilize the information gathered during the preparation phase to develop a comprehensive list of topics to discuss during the session. While each mediation is unique, you should be prepared to address the following:

  • Division of Marital Property and Debts: Prior to attending mediation, create a detailed financial and property worksheet. Identify which assets are part of the marital estate and which ones are individually owned. The mediator will assist in ensuring a fair division of marital assets.
  • Division of Retirement Accounts: Disclose all retirement accounts, such as 401k, 403b, and pensions, to your spouse before the mediation session. Dividing retirement accounts can be complex and may require a “qualified domestic relations order” (QDRO) or a “domestic relations order” (DRO) in most cases. If necessary, consider seeking assistance from a pension expert or a QDRO preparation company.
  • Spousal Support: If you anticipate needing spousal support, thoroughly evaluate your income and financial obligations beforehand. Consult with a divorce attorney to understand the laws and calculations regarding spousal support in your state.
  • Child Custody: Familiarize yourself with the basics of child custody and the commonly used terms during mediation. Understanding the expectations surrounding child custody will enable you to actively participate in the discussion.
  • Child Support: The mediator will apply the state’s guidelines to determine the appropriate amount of child support. Be prepared to discuss any unique expenses related to your child and the allocation of child tax credits between both parents.
  • Insurance Coverage: Discuss the ownership and potential transfer of all insurance policies, such as health, vehicle, property, and umbrella insurance. Address any concerns regarding health insurance coverage during and after the divorce.
  • Future Communication: Plan for post-divorce communication, including strategies for handling non-compliance with the agreement, exchanging tax information, paying legal expenses, resolving disputes, and establishing effective communication methods.
  • Additional Issues: Consider any other specific matters relevant to your family that may require discussion. Addressing potential sources of disagreement early on can prevent future conflicts.

By thoroughly preparing for divorce mediation in Connecticut, you increase the likelihood of achieving a fair outcome while minimizing stress, wasted time, and unnecessary expenses.

Working with a Connecticut Mediation Lawyer

A Connecticut mediation lawyer plays a pivotal role in the mediation process, offering valuable guidance and support to couples seeking a divorce. They act as neutral facilitators, ensuring that both parties have an equal opportunity to express their concerns and needs. By maintaining an unbiased stance, the mediation lawyer helps create an environment conducive to fair and balanced negotiations.

At McConnell Family Law Group, our Connecticut mediation lawyers may be able to help couples explore creative solutions and alternative options that may not be readily available through litigation. Our team may be able to suggest compromises and propose win-win solutions, taking into account the unique circumstances of the couple and their family. This approach allows for more customized and tailored agreements that meet the specific needs of both parties.

Contact us today at (203) 541-5520 to schedule a consultation.

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