St. Petersburg Mediation Lawyer
Divorce is always very difficult for the people going through it. When you and your spouse cannot agree to the different terms of divorce, it is even more difficult. There are many ways to resolve the disputes that often arise in a divorce case, and some of them are more effective and affordable than others. Mediation is a great tool that can help opposing parties reach an agreement in a manner that is more amicable so it is easier for each side to move forward post-divorce. Below, our St. Petersburg mediation lawyer explains the process, and the advantages and drawbacks of it.
What is Mediation?
In most divorce cases, mediation is mandatory in St. Petersburg and throughout Florida. The courts are notoriously backlogged and when mediation sessions can take place outside of the courtroom, it helps relieve the pressure on the courts.
Mediation takes place over a number of weeks, with the opposing parties meeting for several sessions during that time. During these sessions, an objective mediator helps the two sides compromise and communicate, so they can reach an agreement. If an agreement is reached during mediation, the mediator then submits it to the court for approval.
Issues Resolved During Mediation
The issues that must be resolved during mediation will depend on the specific facts of a case. The most common issues resolved during mediation are as follows:
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Property division: Under Florida law, marital property must be divided fairly, but that does not necessarily mean each party receives an equal share. There is often much dispute over what is considered ‘fair’ in property division hearings.
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Alimony: One of the most heavily debated issues in divorce, the parties must determine whether alimony is appropriate and if so, the amount.
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Issues related to children: Parenting time and child support are also difficult issues for parents to resolve during divorce. During mediation, the two parties should create a time-sharing schedule that includes overnight visits and holidays.
Advantages and Drawbacks of Mediation
The biggest advantage to mediation is that it is one of the most cost-effective ways to resolve the issues during divorce. Litigation can cost tens and thousands of dollars, and it can also take one year or more to resolve the issues of divorce. Mediation can take only a matter of weeks and is a fraction of the cost of a divorce trial.
Although mediation is very effective, it is not for everyone. For example, mediation requires the parties to be on equal footing. As such, if there is a history of domestic abuse or other circumstances that places one spouse in a powerful position over the other, mediation is not usually appropriate.
Call Our Mediation Lawyer in St. Petersburg Now
Mediation is a great option for divorce, but you should work with a St. Petersburg mediation lawyer when going through the process. At Greene & Greene, our seasoned attorneys will help you prepare for the process and give you the best chance of a successful outcome. Call us now at (727) 821-2900 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
