Divorce is never easy and some circumstances are worse than others. However, there are divorce alternatives in Virginia that can offer divorcing couples a different, and sometimes better, method to obtain a divorce. Two examples include mediation and an uncontested divorce.
Benefits of Mediation
Mediation is an alternative to a litigated divorce in which a divorcing couple uses a mediator to help them resolve conflict as peacefully as possible separate from each party consulting their own attorneys. Mediators are impartial individuals who facilitate communication, negotiation, and good listening. Overall, advantages of using mediation as one of the numerous divorce alternatives include:
- Less expensive than litigated divorce.
- Faster and more private than contested divorce.
- Easier emotionally on whole family.
- Allows both parties to come to more desirable settlement.
There are professional mediators who earn their living providing divorcing couples with services involving property and financial issues, custody and visitation, and establishment of support.
Advantages of Uncontested Divorce
Virginia divorces can be uncontested in the sense that while there may be disagreements, these disputes do not have to be resolved in court. By working out mutual terms for the separation, divorcing couples can save time and money by utilizing divorce alternatives that bypass the lengthy litigation and trial process. Advantages of an uncontested divorce include:
- Reduced hostility between the divorcing spouses.
- Allows both parties to resume their lives more quickly.
- It is more private and keeps conflicts to a minimum.
- Permits divorcing couples to stay in control of negotiations.
In an uncontested divorce, couples reach agreement on all issues related to their divorce, thereby avoiding the stress and headache of attending a trial before a judge.
When divorcing spouses can agree on the terms of the divorce either through mediation or an uncontested divorce, there is only a bit of paperwork to file with the court system. Once the court enters the order, the divorce is final.
Matt Kurylo
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