Are you curious about whether mediation or court is better for your separation? You’re not alone. If you have gotten to the point of separation with your partner though, I’m here to tell you that mediation can be your best friend. These are just a few of the things I’ve found in my experience as a family mediator:
- Mediation is 100% confidential, where as outcomes from court can be made public. It’s your business and it should be kept that way.
- Mediation offers the greatest chance for parents to have their voice heard while composing separation agreements versus having outcomes imposed by a court decision.
- Parents can speak openly and safely in a mediation, generating options together that are best for their children.
- Where court is evidence and history-based, mediation is a present and forward-thinking process that encourages parents to make better decisions for themselves and their children.
- It’s typically about 1/8th of the cost and time commitment as going through a legal process takes.
- Good fences make good neighbours. Mediation allows parties to create their own outcomes. Utilizing an experienced family lawyer can assure that a mediated agreement reflects the spirit of the agreement, while also holding parties accountable.
- Less animosity. Just because a family is separating does not change the fact that in the eyes of most children, they are still a family. If parents reach a co-authored agreement there is a far better chance the family as a whole can transition to a happier future.
- Mediation is far less formal. Think of it as a conversation promoting common ground between parties, not a battle to be won or lost.
At the end of the day, using mediation during a separation will save you time, headaches, money, and grey hair. Courts can be intimidating legal structures with specific rules and formalities. Doesn’t sitting down and having an open and honest conversation sound better?
Every situation is different. This blog post is not intended to provide legal advice. Contact us for further help on your unique parental dispute.
Artwork by Megan Hewson. View her work at https://www.instagram.com/megheworiginals/