If you’re going through a divorce, you may dread the idea of going to court. Television and movies often make divorce look like a heated battle where only one party emerges victorious. Lot of times it is exactly like that. Thankfully, that doesn’t have to be the case. Many respectable and sincere lawyers will suggest Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) as a better way to resolve your divorce issues. Two common forms of ADR include mediation and arbitration. If you and your ex-spouse are on decent terms but you can’t decide how to settle issues like child support, property division, and health insurance coverage, then mediation might be right for you. If you’re still quarrelling about something in your divorce agreement, then you might use arbitration to resolve the dispute. Take a look at some of the key benefits of ADR before you commit to several stressful months at trial.
- It’s better for your children
It’s often said that a parent’s stress can permeate a household, affecting children in subtle ways. While litigation can be a very stressful form of dispute resolution, creating a hostile environment that pits one parent against the other, ADR can be very peaceful and respectful by comparison. When your children see you cooperating with your ex-spouse, they will be much better off adjusting to the changes presented by your divorce. Besides, ADR allows you to have more control over decisions related to your child. While a court needs to approve any agreements on child support, custody, and visitation, you can both make mutual decisions with your child’s best interests in mind.
- It’s less intimidating
If you have both decided to make an amicable split, ADR can provide you with a more comfortable environment to discuss the terms of your divorce. Many people are intimidated by the thought of appearing in a courtroom and making their case in front of a judge. In an ADR situation, each party works together with an impartial arbitrator or mediator, and decisions are made in the spirit of cooperation—rather than competition. Call the professionals at Ahluwalia Law, and we’ll make sure you’re confident with the dispute resolution process going forward.
- You save money
Mediated divorces are often much more cost-effective than traditional divorces. The cost of a private mediator saves you the greater cost of arguing in court over the course of many months. Similarly, arbitration also tends to be cheaper than litigation because it is faster and less complicated.
- You get help from a neutral third party
Unlike a judge, a mediator does not make decisions, but instead aims to help you both reach a mutual agreement. Mediators can meet individually with each of you and draft up a unique agreement that will benefit your particular circumstances and needs. An arbitrator’s goal, on the other hand, is to make a fair decision for both of you. Both mediators and arbitrators should be disinterested in, or impartial to, the outcome of your discussions. You can pick your own mediator or arbitrator in many cases. Choose Ahluwalia Law for dependable answers to your legal questions and concerns.
- It’s faster and more satisfying
The long and complex process of arguing in court can be cut short when you decide to mediate or use arbitration. Because the process is not adversarial in nature, you’re also more likely to be satisfied with the results, which could also ensure a more pleasant future relationship with your ex-spouse. People tend to be happiest with the participation-driven results of mediation because they are more closely involved with the outcome.
Make sure you choose a lawyer you can trust to take charge of your ADR proceedings. Attorney Madan Ahluwalia of Ahluwalia Law is a skilled and vastly experienced mediator who can help you get started on the best path towards resolving your divorce by means of ADR whenever possible. Call us today to learn more!
