Divorce can be a trying time for all individuals involved. Dividing property and making decisions on child custody is complicated and often isn’t helped by the emotional duress you might be under. Because of these difficulties, divorcing couples may seek help from a divorce mediator rather than a traditional British Columbia divorce lawyer.
But what is a mediator? How can they help make your divorce easier, and how do you choose the right one? Discover more by reaching out to a BC divorce lawyer today.
Understanding Mediation
Many divorces may undergo long, drawn-out legal processes. Mediation offers an alternative to the traditional divorce process. During mediation, the divorcing individuals will collaborate to make decisions on various concerns, including custody schedules, property division, and more. Ideally, this will lead to a simpler and more amicable parting.
A divorce mediator plays a key role in this process. Their job is to act as a neutral third party, helping both parties come to solutions they can both agree on. During the process, they will:
- Help facilitate communication between the spouses
- Oversee the process and keep it moving in a productive direction
Your mediator’s goal isn’t to offer you legal advice but to help you and your partner work together to find your own solutions. They offer a safe, confidential space where you can express your concerns and, eventually, come to an understanding.
What Are the Benefits of Mediation?
Mediation gives the divorcing spouses more control over what happens with their assets and family. In addition, you may be able to find more creative solutions to your problems, while in court, your options may be limited.
Mediation also helps preserve your relationship with your partner. Litigation, backed by a British Columbia divorce lawyer, may escalate conflict, leaving both parties feeling bitter. A mediator can help smooth out conflict and bring the two of you to a more peaceful solution. This will lessen your stress and may contribute to an amicable relationship down the line.
What Does the Mediation Process Look Like?
Generally, you’ll begin the mediation process by meeting with the mediator who will work on your case. You and your spouse will speak to them separately, giving you the opportunity to discuss your concerns, learn more about the mediation process, and ask questions. In addition, the mediator will look for any signs of family violence that may impact the process or appropriateness of mediation.
Should the initial meetings go well, you will need to gather documents like tax returns, bank statements, and credit card statements. After reviewing these documents, the actual mediation process will begin. Depending on the need, this may occur over several appointments or only one.
How to Choose Your Mediator
Finding the right mediator is important to your divorce’s success. Consider asking your mediator the following questions:
- What sort of education do you have?
- How involved are you in the mediation process?
- How will the mediation process proceed?
Take your time speaking to them to see how well you mesh. If you aren’t entirely comfortable working with them, you’ll likely want to choose another mediator.
Reach Out to a Family Law Lawyer in BC To Learn More
Divorce can be difficult. Requesting divorce counsel in BC can make your situation easier. Work with a legal mediator in British Columbia from Pier Law & Mediation and request guidance through the mediation process. Learn more about how we can help with your case. Reach out at (604) 359-3159 today.
