Mediation has proven to be such an effective alternative to divorce litigation that New Jersey has built it into the court process by having the parties go to Early Settlement Panel and, if needed, economic mediation.
New Jersey courts advocate for mediation as an alternative to litigation not just because of its success rates, but also because of the significant benefits that it has for everyone involved. Here are 10 benefits of divorce mediation:
1. You retain more control over the outcome of your case.
In litigation, the judge has ultimate say over the outcome of the divorce and what is best for the family.
2. The mediation process is often less costly — both financially and emotionally.
Even litigating one issue or more in a divorce can be extremely expensive, not to mention stressful and emotionally draining.
3. Children often fare better when mediation is used to settle a divorce.
The chance of having an amicable environment for the children, instead of a hostile one, is much greater.
4. Mediation can be an effective way to minimize the time associated with divorce.
With mediation, you and your spouse can meet on your own time, as opposed to waiting for the court to set hearings.
5. It is much easier to keep your personal life private with mediation.
Court proceedings are typically public record, including divorce cases, while mediation is a private and confidential process.
6. You’ll both be more committed to reaching a resolution in mediation.
You will take a more active role in developing mutually beneficial resolutions tailored to your family’s unique needs.
7. The resolution is more likely to be sustainable following mediation.
Because you came up with the agreement yourselves, it is less likely that future disputes will arise, costing additional time and money.
8. Co-parenting is typically easier to do after a mediation compared with litigation.
When you work collaboratively during the mediation process, you will learn valuable skills that can be applied to co-parenting.
9. You can get as creative as you want with mediation.
The process allows you to think “outside of the box” and come up with a unique plan that meets each of your needs, concerns and goals.

10. There is no risk involved.

If mediation is not successful, you have the option to use the traditional litigation model to finalize the divorce.

We Can Help You Decide If Mediation Is Right For You

While Nancy encourages clients to consider mediation when facing divorce or post-divorce modification, she also understands that it does not fit every situation or every case.
With 40 years of experience in divorce and family law, attorney Nancy S. Feinberg will carefully assess your unique situation and help you determine the best dispute resolution given your particular needs, concerns and goals. Contact our firm, located in South Orange, at 973-378-8886.