Divorce court isn’t the only option if you’re seeking to end your marriage. Mediation can be an efficient, effective, and empowering way for you and your spouse to address things like the house, the parenting schedule, and how to divide your assets.
A Westport mediation lawyer on our team can help you decide if mediation, traditional divorce court, or collaborative divorce is right for you. Our family attorneys can also serve as either the mediator or “review counsel” for one party, advising you before and after the session. Let us help by getting in touch with our firm and scheduling an initial meeting.
When Is Mediation Appropriate?
Mediation is appropriate in many family law cases. You don’t necessarily need to agree on everything or have a “simple” divorce. What’s most important is that you both commit to transparency and the mediation process and can both participate fully. You and your spouse may mediate some or all the issues involved in the divorce. If you’re already divorced and need to enforce legal agreements (such as a child custody plan), you may be able to do so in mediation.
Connecticut law allows you and your spouse to use mediation to answer questions, such as:
- Who gets the house or cars?
- How will you and your spouse divide up the assets?
- If applicable, how will the parenting schedule work?
- How much in alimony or child support payments should be paid?
- What is the visitation schedule for holidays, weekends, and summer vacations?
A mediator listens and guides you and your spouse toward a healthy and productive discussion. Mediation may not be appropriate if you don’t get along or have complex or high-value assets.
If mediation is not an option, you and your spouse may participate in collaborative divorce or standard divorce litigation. Our Westport mediation attorneys can talk to you about your situation and help you decide the best course of action.
How Is Mediation Different from Divorce Court?
In divorce court, you and your spouse would file a court petition asking permission to legally end the marriage. You and your spouse would exchange information (called discovery) and may go to trial to resolve legal issues like child support, visitation, and financial questions. The judge would be present and have the authority to accept or reject the agreements you and your spouse may make.
Mediation typically begins with out-of-court discussions about legal issues like child support and property division in an out-of-court setting. A neutral mediator facilitates your conversations with your spouse. We also recommend you work with an attorney to review the discussions and explain your options.
Mediation can be an effective way for you and your spouse to save time and keep control over the outcome of your divorce. Mediation attorneys regularly assist people in Westport who are participating in or curious about this out-of-court service.
Contact a Westport Mediation Attorney for Help
Mediation can be a valuable alternative to traditional divorce court, allowing you and your spouse to save time and money on costly litigation. Connecticut law doesn’t require you to have a lawyer to participate in mediation, but it’s a good idea to have one. Experienced advice from a knowledgeable family law attorney will help you fully understand the implications of the agreement you’re considering.
Our team is here to guide you through the steps involved in mediation. We can help you understand your rights and ensure the outcome aligns with your best interests. Contact a Westport mediation lawyer on our team to learn more.
