Getting a divorce in Birmingham is easy, provided you and your spouse don’t disagree on important terms of the separation. Unfortunately, disputes are common among separating spouses. While you may not agree on all issues concerning the divorce, it doesn’t mean you have to go for a trial. An alternative means of Dispute Resolution is divorce mediation. It eliminates the need for litigation and gives both parties a chance to work out their issues so that they can get an uncontested divorce. Consider meeting one of the best-rated divorce attorneys Birmingham AL, to understand the relevance of mediation. In this post, we are discussing the steps involved in divorce mediation.
- Agreeing for mediation: Both parties must agree to mediation for the process to begin. Even if one party doesn’t want to go for mediation or negotiate things further, it could halt the process. A contested divorce can take a long time and involve considerable expenses, which is something worth avoiding.
- Meeting the mediator: The mediator works as a neutral party to the divorce. Once the parties agree to divorce mediation, both parties and respective lawyers will meet the mediator to discuss what they want from the process. Explaining the end goal to the mediator is essential.
- Discussing and negotiating issues: The mediator will go back and forth with both parties to discuss each issue in detail. The parties can also consider meeting the mediator as many times as required to come to an agreement.
- Drafting the marital settlement agreement: If you and your spouse agree to resolve certain issues amicably, your lawyers can help prepare a marital settlement agreement, which will be submitted to the Circuit Court.
- Finalizing the divorce: If the Circuit Court approves the agreement, a final divorce decree will be issued, which marks the end of the marriage.
Things to understand
Just because you agree to mediation doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your interests. However, it is still best to go for the mediation process with a flexible mind so that you don’t hold on to grudges. Let your attorney negotiate things for you, and based on the circumstances, they can advise you on whether you should let go of certain demands. While mediation doesn’t always resolve disputes, it remains the best alternative to a trial that could be very expensive and complex.
Talk to your lawyer if you prefer an uncontested divorce and wouldn’t mind considering mediation.
