At one time, ending a marriage was pretty cut-and-dried. After filing for divorce, the parties went to court and let the skeletons out of their closet for all to see before receiving the final decree. Of course, this is simplified, but the point is, divorce court was essentially the only way to sever a marriage.
Now, couples in Massachusetts have additional options for going their separate ways. One option that is gaining popularity is divorce mediation. This process enables couples to have more control over the details of their divorce. It also keeps those skeletons where they belong – between you and your spouse.
While mediation is a fine choice for many, the process is not suitable for all couples. How can you know if divorce mediation will work for your family? The best way is to speak with an attorney about your circumstances. He or she can then recommend an option tailored to your specific needs.
For many, the best option might be mediation and for others, a traditional courtroom divorce might work better. Examples of marital situations that may be unsuitable for mediation include the following.
- Marriages in which a spouse is afraid to express their feelings
- Marriages in which violence, bullying or abuse is an issue
- Marriages in which the couple’s finances are more complex than most
- Marriages in which one party refuses to cooperate or participate
The goal of mediation for most couples is to reach a fair agreement while also reducing conflict. As such, it is critical to learn as much as you can about mediation and how it may affect your divorce. You can find answers to your questions and concerns about this and other divorce issues by consulting with a qualified legal representative.