Getting divorced can be extremely expensive when couples choose the route of litigation to settle their marital disputes. Many individuals looking to initiate the divorce process don’t realize that there are multiple approaches that are generally more affordable than litigation. A divorce attorney who is truly on your side will be able to steer you in the direction that best suits your individual needs and help move forward toward your personal and financial goals.
The Mediation Difference
Mediation is a popular alternative tool that many couples have used to maintain control over the outcome of their divorce and their lives. Mediation takes place in a more intimate setting with a third-party mediator who remains impartial to the outcome. Benefits of mediation include:
- Lower financial expense
- Less lengthy proceedings
- Flexibility in scheduling
- Privacy
Preparing for a Successful Divorce Mediation
While there are many benefits to mediation over traditional court proceedings, the process is still complicated and requires appropriate preparation and diligence. To prepare for a successful mediation process, Lawrenceville divorce attorney Ashley Pepitone offers the following tips:
- Have a clear idea of what you are willing to settle for in each aspect of your divorce. Create a list of your best case outcomes and your bottom line for each point including assets, child support, custody, holiday, and life insurance. This will help you and your attorney prioritize your needs and help you achieve a successful and amicable outcome.
- Understand that certain aspects of your divorce cannot be altered after the divorce is finalized. Negotiations can continue throughout the process until the the document is signed by a judge. Working with an experienced divorce attorney is the best way to ensure that all of your needs are address and that nothing is left to chance. Once finalized and signed by a judge, a divorce is legally binding. This is also the case for separation agreements, consent orders, and other types of settlement agreements.
- Take note of which parts of your agreement can potentially be changed after finalization, but understand that alterations may require a significant change in circumstance to make revisions. Areas of exception includes child support, custody and visitation. Oftentimes, these negotiations are revised in instances of fraud or hidden assets. If your attorney can submit enough evidence to the judge to reopen your case, you may be able to make adjustments.
How a Divorce Attorney Can Help
Having an attorney on your side during the process of mediation is always beneficial and can help you make the most out of this difficult process. An experienced divorce attorney will ensure that all of your bases are covered and your needs are prioritized heading into mediation.
Pepitone Family Law has a unique flat fee philosophy for legal services, including mediation, so you are never surprised by extraneous bills. It is our goal to assist you through the process of divorce to reach the best possible resolution. To learn more or to schedule a consultation with an attorney please contact us online or by calling 770-800-2681.