Divorce mediation is common and can be extremely helpful, especially when modifying existing child custody and spousal maintenance orders. Mediation allows you to control the outcome and make adjustments in a less contentious environment.
Mediation is a collaborative process in which a neutral third-party professional helps you focus on a fair outcome, not on past resentments. In Wisconsin, mediation can save you time, money and emotional stress compared to traditional court proceedings.
How does family law mediation work?
Family mediation offers numerous benefits for post-divorce modifications. It allows you to make changes to existing orders that best suit your family and reduces the need for lengthy court battles.
Here are some key advantages:
- Mediation is generally less expensive than going to court.
- You can complete the process more quickly than traditional divorce litigation.
- You control the timeline and can tailor arrangements to fit your family’s unique needs.
- Mediation fosters a cooperative environment, which can ease co-parenting.
- Discussions are private and not part of public court records.
During mediation, you can address modifications to child custody and placement arrangements, child support payments and spousal maintenance orders. Courts must still approve any changes.
Giving children a voice can be helpful
Including your children’s views in mediation can lead to more sustainable arrangements. A study from the University of Exeter found that giving kids a voice can help families make better decisions and even improve the children’s well-being.
A child’s participation ensures that their needs and wishes are considered, making the outcome more effective for everyone involved. This approach has also shown that it can relieve significant backlogs in family court and avoid unnecessary financial and emotional costs. The study’s authors recommend child-inclusive mediation as the default model unless it’s unsafe.
Getting legal guidance from a lawyer-mediator
Working with a family law attorney skilled in mediation can also be beneficial. In Wisconsin, a lawyer-mediator can guide you through the process, ensuring the arrangements meet legal standards while prioritizing your family’s unique needs.
Family mediators can help you reach agreements that make the most sense for your family, especially if a parent is moving or other significant changes are involved.