Up to 39% of couples who had dated three years before they became engaged were less likely to file for divorce than couples who only dated a year before they became engaged. There are many reasons couples decided to divorce. Not every couple is divorcing due to strenuous circumstances. A lot of times, couples that still remain friendly choose to stay out of court and use mediation services instead. Everything seems calm, you both plan on agreeing to terms you’ve discussed. However, you still need an affordable divorce lawyer so you fully understand the worst- and best-case scenarios concerning debt, property, child custody, reimbursements, financial support, and the list goes on. Every case varies with different facets of complexities and you need legal assistance even when using mediation services.
Hire a Lawyer to Represent You Through Mediation Services
When you and your spouse decide to use mediation services, you should still hire a divorce lawyer to assist you through the process. There are quite a few things they can do for you including joining you during mediation sessions. You may not think that divorce lawyers need to be present at the mediation. However, what would happen if you need legal advice before making a big decision? If your lawyer was not present, your mediation may not result in the settlement you prefer.
Ensure that your rights are protected, even if you and your soon-to-be-ex agree to uncouple amicably. A Palm Beach County divorce lawyer would be there to fully support, coach, and strategize with you throughout the mediation process. When it is time to view final divorce forms, they will fully review them and assist with revisions if needed. You can count on them to fully represent you and keep your interests in mind during mediation services.
You Do Not Want to Negotiate the Dissolving of a Marriage Contract on Your Own
Wait, you’ve already paid for mediation services and now you need to hire an attorney too? But you and your spouse have talked about everything and you both agree on many aspects. Isn’t that enough? Actually, it’s not. You are about to dissolve a contract. That’s exactly what a marriage is, a matrimony contract. It’s a very emotional and financial contract that encourages people to think about getting what they deem is ‘fair’. What’s considered to be fair if you don’t know the law? What if what you think is fair ends up being the opposite of what your spouse considers to be fair? The only way to fully determine what is fair and possible is by speaking with an experienced attorney ready to represent you, that knows how to figure these things out.
Doesn’t a Mediator Represent You?
Mediation is a good way to create a decent outcome for an amicable divorce. You get to decide what is better for you and your family, by tailoring an agreement that fits your situation. However, it needs to be understood that a mediator is not there to represent you. They are simply there to help a divorcing couple shape an answer that fits the joint as well as individual goals. It is a mistake to think that the mediator has your best interests in mind. You need a knowledgeable attorney to ensure that your interests remain at the core of a divorce agreement.
Hire a Divorce Lawyer That Understands the Mediation Process
A skilled divorce lawyer understands the mediation process and can direct and advise you to the extent needed. They are able to explain the process of mediation, assist you in understanding what exposure and leverage you have, listen to your intentions, priorities, concerns, and goals, help strategize and develop unique proposals, and assist you in responding to any unreasonable demands as well as how to negotiate them. Ultimately, your attorney will review the written settlement agreement before you sign it. It’s wise to remember that the mediator isn’t there for you, but your attorney is and they will make sure the end agreement clearly reflects your goals.