Child custody is often a tricky and contentious part of a divorce. Custody issues can be a long, drawn-out process, so considering going through mediation in Florida is a feasible option, especially if you and your estranged spouse are not far apart on most issues.
Why is mediation better than going to court?
Mediation offers a number of advantages over going to court for child custody issues. When you look into dispute resolution options, you can make your divorce less contentious and focus on what is best for your children.
Unlike going through a court, mediation offers a non-adversarial approach. Even though mediation is non-binding, the parties involved are more likely to reach agreements because of its very nature. Mediation works because the neutral third party can see beyond the disagreements of the involved parties and show them pathways to compromise. While court proceedings can take months or even years, mediation generally only takes a week or two, allowing everyone involved to move on with their lives. Because mediation takes less time, it usually is much less expensive than going to court.
Establishing a better relationship for going forward
Even if you have an extremely contentious relationship with your estranged spouse, working with a mediator can help set the tone for future negotiations. It’s important to remember that child custody rulings should reflect the best interest of your children, not the parents. Your children will do better if the two of you are able to cooperate and communicate.
Mediators are professionals who specialize in negotiating agreements. You may not see a way out of what seems an impossible situation, but most likely a mediator will. You owe it to yourself, and especially to your children, to find a way to come to terms that are as acceptable and peaceful as possible.
