Money matters are often at the forefront of any divorce. Common concerns include child support payments, alimony payments, and costs related to property division.
However, it is important to realize that the actual process of divorce can be very expensive as well. According to Forbes Magazine, one of the best ways to make your divorce more affordable is to opt for a mediated divorce.
What is a mediated divorce?
If the word “divorce” is synonymous in your mind with a courtroom, you are thinking about a trial divorce. Trial divorces can take many months, depending on the circumstances surrounding the divorce and assets involved. Oftentimes, trial divorces involve multiple lawyers, judges, paralegals, and other professionals.
Trial divorces are usually very expensive due to the length of time and amount of legal personnel they require. A mediated divorce, on the other hand, often involves both parties having their own lawyer, but the divorce takes place across a conference table. Both parties will negotiate the terms of the divorce and agree on them outside of a courtroom.
What makes mediated divorce more affordable?
Typically, mediated divorces require far fewer professionals and take much less time. This means that the divorce process ends up being less expensive. However, it is important to be realistic with mediated divorce. If you and your ex-spouse cannot be in the same room without an argument, it is unlikely that mediation will prove fruitful. In this case, wasting time on mediation may be an expense best avoided.
However, for ex-couples who are able to work together to ensure a positive outcome for all parties, mediation is a great choice.