How to Determine if Divorce Mediation Will Actually Work for You

Divorce mediation is finding favor with an increasing number of divorcing couples for its more laidback nature (and for the significantly lower expenses associated with it). But will it work for you and your spouse?

Mediation can work in both high- and low-conflict relationships, so long as the following statements are true:

• You both agreed to divorce: If one of the spouses completely refuses to play ball in the divorce, it will be hard to get them to agree to mediation, let alone find success with the process. Mediators can work through conflict and drama, so long as both parties agree to divorce and to go through the process.
• There is no abuse or domestic violence: Mediation should not be used in circumstances when there is a history of abuse or domestic violence. In fact, most mediators will not even agree to take the case if they find out about this. It could give the abusive party the edge in negotiations, as they can use the victim’s fear to their advantage.
• Neither party is lying about their assets or finances: Mediation becomes significantly more difficult if either party is less than truthful or forthcoming about their financial situation. If one party is unwilling to provide the other with important documentation and information about assets, the divorce may need to be litigated.
• You can generally agree on custody issues: Child custody is frequently the most contentious issue in divorces. If you can at least come to a general agreement on custody yourselves, you can work through the specifics (and other issues) in a mediation setting.

For more information about the benefits of divorce mediation and when it’s most likely to work, contact an experienced divorce lawyer on Long Island at Solutions Divorce Mediation.