Divorce is hard enough without facing a process filled with conflict and anxiety. The fact is that one-third of all marriages in Massachusetts and Rhode Island will end in divorce. The myth is that all divorces are filled with resentment and discontent between spouses. Although divorce is painful, many divorcing spouses are agreeable to developing a settlement that is fair and balanced for everyone involved.

Divorce mediation is an alternative to that of a litigated divorce. Mediation allows spouses to work with a neutral party and maintain control over negotiation that lead to a fair agreement. This can simplify the decision-making process and minimize the overall time and cost of a divorce. Attorneys by profession are trained to fight for their client and can only represent one party. Some mediators are trained as social workers with a specialized certification in divorce mediation. As professionally trained facilitators, they appreciate the emotional and logistical tolls that a divorce represents and will help ensure a respectful process.

The goal of mediation is to assist spouses in negotiating a divorce agreement that will be recognized by the courts, is cost effective, and is focused towards the most operative outcome for the overall family.

Mediation is recognized by family courts as an alternative to litigation and is increasingly encouraged. Divorce through mediation encourages communication and compromise, helping to establish a new relationship based on respect and dignity. The process can help spouses that are currently struggling to communicate in ways that a litigated divorce cannot.

Not all mediators are the same and you should consider carefully who you place your trust in. One option is to use not only certified mediators, but also Licensed Independent Social Workers.

Consider mediation if you or someone you know is facing a divorce.

Tuesday, May 15
at 8 pm to 8:30 EST
Out With the Tragedy: Turning Divorce into a meaningful experience
with Allison Pescosolido and Andra Brosh, founders of Divorce Detox
Learn More

Listen to podcasts of previous TeleSeminars.