Are you thinking about ending your marriage? Are you worried about dragging things out in court? Guess what? Massachusetts residents do not have to litigate their divorce cases. For some couples, mediation may be a better way to get through the dissolution process.
Mediation is where a couple agrees to meet with a third party to negotiate divorce terms. Legal counsel can be present at these sessions or at least turned to for advice when needed. In some cases, the mediator may be an attorney; however, the mediator’s job is not to help either party achieve a better settlement. The mediator’s job is simply to keep the process moving along and help both parties understand current state laws surrounding divorce, support, property division and child custody.
Mediation works for couples who are willing to negotiate. It is not meant to be a way for one party to steamroll the other. The mediation process can take time, as every case is different. If it seems that a settlement is unattainable through this process, the matter can then be moved to court for judicial intervention.
Mediation is not for everyone, but it can work for most divorcing couples, even if there are complex issues that need resolving. It is a way to end a marriage relatively peacefully and respectfully which, at the end of the day, the majority of couples want. Massachusetts residents who would like to learn more about mediation can visit our firm’s website for further information on this topic. Those who want to know if it really is an option for them can turn to legal counsel for a case review.
