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Are you considering getting a divorce in Florida? If so, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is how to resolve your divorce. While many couples opt for divorce litigation, there is an alternative route that can be much less expensive, time-intensive, and emotionally taxing: divorce mediation. This blog post will provide an overview of what to expect during the divorce mediation process and why mediation may be advantageous for individuals going through a divorce in The Sunshine State.
Overview of Divorce Mediation in Florida
Divorce mediation is an option for couples who are thinking of getting a divorce in Florida. Mediation is a voluntary process that can help couples make decisions about matters related to their divorce. A mediator, who is trained and experienced in the area of matrimonial law, will guide the couple through their discussions by helping them identify shared goals and develop solutions to all their issues. The divorce mediation process, which is less expensive and more expedient than divorce litigation, can be a great way to help both spouses find closure while minimizing conflicts.
Benefits of Divorce Mediation
Getting divorced can be an emotionally charged and overwhelming experience. Fortunately, residents of Florida have access to divorce mediation services, which can help them navigate the complexities of their situation. The following are a few of the many benefits of divorce mediation:
- Mediation provides a cooperative approach that encourages divorcing couples to communicate and find mutually beneficial solutions.
- The divorce mediation process allows divorcing spouses to craft agreements that are tailored to their specific needs, making it significantly easier for parents to make decisions about custody arrangements and other matters pertaining to their children.
- Divorce mediation helps eliminate prolonged conflict between spouses because potential solutions to disagreements can be identified more quickly.
Bottom line, working with a qualified mediator in Florida can be a powerful tool to ease the stress of the divorce process while still achieving desired results.
How to Choose a Divorce Mediator
When considering how to choose a divorce mediator in Florida, it is important to consider factors such as experience and qualifications. Ideally, the mediator should have a background in law, plus several years of experience working with divorcing couples.
The mediator should also be committed to fairness and respect for all parties involved and should show understanding for each individual’s unique needs and concerns. Additionally, it is helpful if the mediator offers online options or video conferencing services.
Preparing for Divorce Mediation
Preparing for divorce mediation in Florida involves gathering necessary documents, such as financial statements and tax returns, to effectively negotiate settlement agreements. It's important that you are prepared to discuss your current life situation and have a realistic idea of what kind of outcome is possible from divorce mediation. It’s important to understand how decisions made during divorce mediation could affect your future. When approaching divorce mediation, it’s best to enter with an open mind and a collaborative spirit.
What to Expect During the Mediation Process
Unlike court proceedings, mediation is a private process that starts with the divorcing spouses meeting with a mediator (typically an attorney) who helps them develop a divorce agreement. The mediator will explain each person’s rights and help the divorcing couple come up with mutually beneficial solutions that can be incorporated into the final divorce agreement.
Each of the divorcing spouses has the right to present their case, tell their side of the story, and provide relevant information. The proceedings are confidential, and everyone involved is treated respectfully. After negotiations are complete, the agreement is documented and presented to the divorcing spouses for review before being approved and handed over to the courts of Florida.
To learn more about divorce mediation in Florida, give Orshan, Spann & Fernandez-Mesa a call at (305) 853-9161 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation with our experienced family law attorneys. For more information about Orshan, Spann & Fernandez-Mesa, read our clients’ reviews.
