Divorce is one of the most difficult situation a couple may face. It involves many issues like child custody and support, dividing properties and debt, and alimony. However, no matter how stressful this matter can be, most people would find a way to settle the matter in an organized and less hurtful manner. This is where divorce mediation comes in, where everything is legally processed by having both couple together with their lawyers and a third party, which is usually assigned by the court called a “mediator”, meet to talk about any disputes they both have and come up with a solution that will satisfy both parties' needs. Divorce mediation is a substitute to a formal procedure of divorce in court. A mediator's role is to help the couple find a solution to their disagreements, give suggestions or share his/her views. However, they are not allowed to oblige an agreement upon the couple.
There are several advantages both parties can have in a divorce mediation process. Since both parties can avoid the normal procedure of a divorce court, it lessens the time of process for the couple, cutting down the normal steps of the usual procedure and decreases the Family Court System's caseload thus saving time and money in lawyers' fees. Mediation is fair to all parties' concerns and this is the significance of the mediator. Because he/she has no benefit with the result, their impartiality will help find a solution since they are not emotionally driven. In a divorce mediation, court reporters are not present to take down everything both parties say, so the whole process is confidential. All notes that are taken will be disposed of after the process, so the couple don't have to worry having the issue aired publicly.
Divorce mediation also give both parents beneficial substitute especially when it comes to the issues of child custody and support. Through this procedure, the couple can have a chance to work together and make a parenting plan that would credit each party's particular contribution to their child's nurturing. This process is also easier especially on the part of the children. It is a fact that a debated divorce which is created with disagreement brings a negative impact on children who are handling the divorce of their parents. Unintentionally, they are caught in the middle by both parties' attempt to fight over the interest of each side. In mediation, it is the child's best interest which are given importance, teaching both parents to set aside their own. During the divorce process, conflict is common to couples but with the help of a good mediator, good communication skill between the couple is developed reducing the stress between them. Through this, it would be easier to focus and prioritize the child's welfare rather than argue on who is at fault.