by VA Family Law Firm

Blog, DivorceSeptember 23, 20200 comments

Divorce Mediation Northern Virginia: An Alternative to Court

With the cost of divorce averaging tens of thousands of dollars (or more in contested ones), many more amicably-minded couples are considering divorce mediation in Northern Virginia.

In this process, the couple collaborates with a neutral party to decide the terms of the divorce, avoiding court altogether. 

The Cost of Going to Court

In contested divorces, the cost of attorneys, investigators, certified divorce financial analysts, real estate appraisals, and expert witnesses can add up. Not to mention, the legal hours required to put together a compelling case will be numerous.

When a divorce case goes to court, both parties lose the opportunity to settle the divorce on their own terms. Avoiding court can lower costs and give both parties more control over how their lives will proceed after finalization.

Is Mediation Right for Me?

Divorce mediation in Northern Virginia works best when couples commit to working in a good faith, collaborative spirit to reach a resolution. This process appeals to those who wish to maintain control of division of property and child custody terms.

The couple will meet with a neutral party who will guide them toward reasonable, fair solutions to issues commonly addressed in divorce. Even if things get heated during meetings, the mediator is often skilled enough to achieve productive results.

How Long Does Mediation Take?

Typically, the couple arranges a meeting with a mediator that take place over a time frame as short as a day or, in some cases, months. During the time leading up to your meeting, you should work with your attorney to gather documentation that provides a full picture of your marriage.

The information provided by these documents will allow the mediator to make informed suggestions.. Some may find this time tedious, but the goal of the mediator is to produce a settlement that is viewed as fair by both parties.

The documentation requested will include financial information, such as tax documents, bank and mortgage statements. Other documentation may include insurance policies, pension documents, and evidence of assets and liabilities. 

 What Is the Result of Divorce Mediation?

If the parties are able to reach an agreement, a document, either prepared or reviewed by the parties’ respective counsel, is prepared for the parties to sign.   

Once couples agree to the terms, the document can be signed by both and functions as a legally binding contract. If the couple does not reach an agreement, then the divorce needs to proceed to arbitration or litigation.

Divorce Mediation Northern Virginia: Is It Worth It?

Mediation can be a cost-effective way to find resolution in an uncontested divorce, and it works for many motivated couples. To learn more about our mediation process, click to schedule a confidential appointment with the professionals at Grenadier, Duffett, Levi, Winkler & Rubin, P.C.