Some individuals in Massachusetts may put off filing for divorce because of the high costs that are typically associated with these proceedings. Although the cost of a divorce depends on the particular circumstances, the ability of the spouses to communicate and compromise can drastically lower divorce-related expenses in many cases. One option to prevent skyrocketing legal fees is to choose divorce mediation over litigation.
Decisions made in the time leading up to the final divorce judgment typically impact the future of both parents and their children significantly. To a large part, the ability of the divorcing spouses to continue communicating at this difficult time may determine the extent of the costs. Opting for mediation will provide divorcing couples, alongside their respective attorneys, with a professional mediator to facilitate negotiations related to property division, child custody, parenting plans and more.
In comparison, contesting a divorce in court will not only drive up the costs, but it might also impact the ability of the parties to make important decisions about matters of contention. Although spouses typically have the right to make decisions, those issues will be submitted for the court’s determination when no agreement is forthcoming. Divorce mediation can also significantly cut the length of divorce proceedings.
Successful negotiation with regard to divorce issues can prepare parents for future situations regarding child custody and or visitation rights in which negotiation and compromise may be required. The mediation process, during which each party still benefits from the active participation of their respective attorneys, often gives the parties a sense of empowerment. Although some divorce issues cannot be resolved without litigation, an experienced Massachusetts divorce attorney may be able to navigate through divorce mediation to amicably resolve all material issues and to suit the financial means of the client.
Source: wotv4women.com, “Tips to save money on divorce“, Gail Saukas, Nov. 14, 2015
