BENEFITS OF DIVORCE MEDIATION
Couples in the process of divorce frequently disagree as to the division of property, debts, childcare, support and much more. In contested divorces such as these, there is often a long and costly litigation process. Divorce mediation can be a highly advantageous, less costly alternative to the litigation process. The Law Offices of Tamila Jensen provide accomplished Los Angeles based divorce Mediation services.
WHAT IS DIVORCE MEDIATION?
Divorce mediation is the process in which divorcing spouses come to a neutral mediator to try to resolve differences as to decisions related to the upcoming divorce. These decisions may involve division of property, child care, parental visitation, child support. Successful divorce mediation ends in a formal Marital Settlement Agreement which is utilized in the final divorce proceedings.
PROS AND CONS OF DIVORCE MEDIATION
Divorce mediation has many benefits. Some of these are as follows:
- Cost – Divorce mediation is typically a lot less expensive then the traditional lengthy court based litigation process.
- Time – Divorce mediation typically is accomplished in a number of sessions that occur within a relatively short timeframe. Litigation typically lasts much longer.
- No “demonizing” – The litigation process inherently paints the opposing spouse in the worst possible terms to enable the best possible settlement. This can be extremely difficult emotionally for all parties involved, especially children. The mediation process has a neutral observer hearing all sides, and is a much more productive, constructive process.
- Better for children – Litigation can be lengthy, difficult and extremely harsh, especially for children of the divorcing parents. Mediation spares them from further pain in an already very painful situation.
- Better results for families – Mediation typically resolves visitation and similar issues in a more favorable way for many parents. Studies have shown that parents who go through mediation rather than litigation typically cooperate more and have much more participation in their children’s lives following the divorce (refer to http://www.coloradodivorcemediation.com/mediation/research.asp).
Divorce mediation is not right for everyone, however. For example it may not be beneficial in the following situations:
- Uneven power – when the divorcing parents have a relationship based on fear (e.g. spousal abuse), mediation does not help, as both parents do not feel comfortable enough to have an equal say
- Substance abuse – when the divorcing parents are separating due to overwhelming issues of alcohol abuse, drug abuse or related issues, those factors get in the way of true negotiation
- Complete reluctance – One parent cannot force another to enter divorce mediation. It must be an equal effort
FIND THE RIGHT MEDIATOR
The Los Angeles Law Office of Tamila Jensen provides divorce mediation services. As a Bar-certified mediator and attorney, Tamila Jensen has the training and experience to mediate the process and help divorcing parents come to a mutually satisfactory resolution. With her vast LA divorce and separation experience, she can guide both parties through all legal issues related to the process as well.
