A divorce mediation lawyer can help you work out a settlement with your spouse in a divorce. They can also help you draft the final paperwork to file with the court. They can also be helpful if you need to resolve issues related to child custody and/or support, such as setting up parenting schedules or determining how much spousal support should be.
A mediator is a neutral person who helps both parties understand each other’s points of view and propose practical, realistic, and fair compromises in a dispute. Mediation sessions typically include both spouses and their attorneys, as well as in some cases, independent experts like child specialists or financial professionals.
Some counties require that couples attend mandatory mediation before a judge will hear their divorce-related pleadings. In other states, such as New York, the option to attend a mediation session is voluntary. The process of working out a divorce settlement through a mediator can be quicker and less expensive than going to trial on contentious issues such as child custody, property division, or spousal support.
A disadvantage of mediation is that it does not address some types of disputes, including situations in which one spouse suspects that the other is hiding assets or not being truthful. It can also be ineffective if you suspect that your spouse is engaging in abusive or harassing behavior. If you and your spouse are unable to settle your divorce through mediation, it may be necessary to hire a litigation attorney to protect your interests in court.