Going through a separation is undeniably challenging. When there are decisions to make about children, finances, and assets, finding the best solution can feel overwhelming. Increasingly, people who are divorcing are discovering the advantages of mediation over litigation for separated couples, offering a harmonious, cost-effective, and personalised approach.
Mediation in the divorce landscape
Why mediation is a good option when divorcing
1. Efficiency in time and cost
One significant benefit of mediation when divorcing is its speed and cost-effectiveness. Instead of prolonged court cases which can take years, mediation usually moves quickly saving money on legal fees, reducing your time off work, and reducing stress.
2. Personalised solutions for real issues
The advantages of mediation over litigation when divorcing are not just about time and money. With both parties actively shaping the final agreement, outcomes tend to be more tailored to your family’s situation and needs, rather than a decision being imposed by a judge who is limited with what they can do because of the requirements of the Family Law Act.
3. Better emotional health and wellbeing
The confrontational nature of the family court system can be emotionally draining.
The benefits of mediation when divorcing include a nurturing environment that minimises stress and animosity.
4. Keeping kids front and centre
If you have children, the advantages of mediation over litigation for separated couples are even more significant.
A less aggressive approach, as highlighted ensures children can be shielded from your conflict.
Do not underestimate the impact that the stress you experience from litigation has on your children – you don’t have to talk about it, for them to be affected by it.
5. Mediation is private
Court cases are public, but mediation is confidential.
Another crucial advantage of mediation over litigation for separated couples is that personal matters are kept private. Who wants strangers sitting in the back of the courtroom listening to your case?!
6. Encouraging healthy communication
Post-separation communication is vital, especially for co-parenting.
Mediation can set the foundation for future constructive discussions, ensuring a healthier environment for everyone, especially children.
We can talk about how and when you communicate, and make sure everyone is clear on what issues need consensus. Mediation can help develop parental alliances on issues like discipline, to avoid children playing parents off against each other (they will if you aren’t on the same page!)
Is divorce mediation suitable for everyone?
While the advantages of mediation over litigation when divorcing are clear, it might not be the answer for everyone. Both parties must be willing to engage, and in situations where trust is severely compromised, other routes might be more appropriate. However, for those who can make it work, mediation offers a compassionate pathway to resolution.
It’s important to remember that subject to a few narrow exceptions, mediation (family dispute resolution) is compulsory in Australia before going to the family law courts. This is because the government recognises the advantages of mediation over litigation when divorcing and that court is a place of last resort.
So whether you choose mediation because you have to, or because you see the benefits, mediation is often the best step forward when separating.
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