Working With A Mediator Essay

Working With A Mediator To End Your Divorce Could Be A Good Choice

The decision to end your marriage often follows a prolonged period of emotional upheaval. The thought of going through a bitter divorce may be more than you can bear, especially when you consider the expense of hiring a lawyer and going to court. On the other hand, you and your spouse may be willing to part on friendly terms and you don't really need to go through the court process. In cases like these, working with a mediator could be a good alternative. Here's how it works.

A Mediator Is Impartial

Unlike a divorce lawyer with a goal to get you the most from the divorce, a mediator is impartial. He or she doesn't take sides by trying to get you the best settlement. Instead,

The process might take multiple sessions if there are many assets in the marriage, but when you're finished, you'll have a mutually agreed upon arrangement on how to end your marriage, take care of the children, and split the assets.

A Mediator Is Not A Judge

Going to a mediator is nothing like going to court where a judge makes a final decision. A mediator can't tell you what to do and has no legal standing to force decisions on you. Instead, a mediator acts more like a counselor, except it isn't about relationship counseling. With experience and training in communication techniques as well as training in financial and custodial matters, the mediator helps you communicate with your spouse even if you are bitter towards him or her.

The mediator reframes your feelings and words so they are understood by your spouse and this bring about the best outcome for your children and both you and your spouse. While a mediator may not have powers like a judge, there are still some laws that govern the process. The sessions are completely confidential and a mediator cannot be called as a witness in case mediation fails and your divorce goes to