Oftentimes couples steer clear of divorce mediation due to untrue myths they hear about the process. The truth is that mediation is a sensible, affordable, and less stressful option to end a marriage. But, unfortunately, the lack of knowledge about mediation has led to some people going through traditional divorce litigation as they feel it’s the only option that would work.
Here are the 3 biggest misconceptions about divorce mediation and the truth behind them:
1. Mediation Isn’t Possible in High-Conflict Divorces
The most common misconception is that mediation is only for couples who are amicable. They believe that since they are not getting along with their spouses, that they will not be able to sit down at a table with them and sort out issues like finances and child custody.
While it’s true that sitting down across from your spouse may be emotionally difficult, sitting down in a mediation session means there’s a neutral third party whose main role is to focus on the issues at hand and work towards a resolution. If that still sounds like a stretch, there are mediation tools like having separate meetings with both parties or even utilizing an online platform until emotions have cooled enough to sit down together. Most often, the parties are in separate rooms and the mediator goes between the parties.
2. The Mediator Is In Charge of Making the Decisions
Some people hold the belief that a mediator is almost like a judge in that they can tell the couple what to do or what will be done on their behalf. They worry that they’ll be conceding to the whims of the mediator and they don’t want to give up that control.
In reality, one of the strongest benefits of using mediation for divorce is that the two parties have all control to finalize decisions. The mediator serves as a support system and moderator for both parties until they can come to a compromise or solution that works for everyone.
3. Mediation Means You Don’t Need a Lawyer
Some couples that choose mediation are surprised when the mediator suggests two separate lawyers for consulting. But, because a mediator must remain neutral, it’s really to the benefit of the two spouses that they hire a consulting lawyer to advise them on decisions that are in their best interest.
Some couples choose mediation in an effort to avoid lawyers and their sometimes costly fees, but using a mediation lawyer is different and less expensive than retaining one for divorce litigation.
If you’re considering mediation but are still on the fence about it, set up a consultation with Tampa attorneys at Knox & Belcher today. We’re happy to answer all your questions and get you set up with the divorce process that will work best for you.