Divorce is a journey, often complicated and emotionally draining. However, mediation services can help make this journey less tumultuous and more manageable. By utilizing mediation, you can navigate the complexities of divorce in a less adversarial way. Here’s how our effective mediation services in Phoenix can support you.
What Are Divorce Mediation Services?
In the divorce process, mediation serves as a collaborative alternative to traditional court proceedings. A neutral third-party mediator assists you and your spouse in discussing and resolving crucial issues, such as asset division, child custody, and alimony (called spousal maintenance in Arizona). Unlike a judge, a mediator does not make decisions but helps facilitate productive and balanced communication between the parties involved. The couple maintains control of the decisions and outcome.
Benefits of Divorce Mediation
Choosing mediation services offers numerous advantages:
- Cordial Process: Mediation encourages respect and understanding, reducing tension and hostility.
- Cost and Time Efficient: Avoid lengthy court proceedings and associated legal fees. Value your time.
- Confidentiality: Your private matters stay private, unlike public courtroom discussions.
- Control: Have an active say in your divorce agreement, rather than leaving the decisions to a judge.
The Mediation Process: Step by Step
Step 1: Step 1: Schedule a Consult
You fill out the Initial Contact Form and we will set up a consultation to answer your preliminary questions. If you decide to continue, you sign up for Step 2, your first Mediation session. Once signed up, you will receive access to your personal Client Portal which will have a homework package designed to help both of you get organized for your first session. This preliminary work saves you time and money and makes sure you have what you need to get started.
Step 2: Mediation Session or Sessions
Your mediator will host an introductory session to understand your situation, outline the process, and help set a roadmap for future discussions. These joint 2-hour sessions are comprehensive and will help you explore your options before committing to anything. Couples can easily reach full agreement in 1 – 3 mediation sessions. At any time during the process, you may also choose to schedule individual or joint mediation sessions.
Step 3: We File your First Set of Court Documents
When you give the go ahead, we prepare your initial court filings in what we call a neutral manner so you can start the court process and the 60-day clock before having to decide anything. This method keeps you out of the litigation process so you won’t be required to attend hearings or file any motions. We actually e-file the initial documents for you, so you don’t even have to go to the Court.
Step 4: Decide on a Financial Division and a Parenting Plan
Your Mediator will help you get a full picture of your finances and guide you through decisions to help you meet your individual and family goals. You will most likely discuss the division of assets and debts, and spousal maintenance (alimony). If you have children, you will also be assisted in making decisions around parenting time, child support, legal decision making and children’s expenses.
Step 5: Finalize Your Divorce
The mediator prepares the final documents and submits your agreement to the court. Once filed, a Judge is expected to sign and mail back your final divorce decree within a few weeks and that makes the divorce official.
Tips for Effective Mediation
- Preparation is Key: Come ready with a clear understanding of your needs and expectations. Documentation of financial matters is very important.
- Embrace Compromise: Mediation is about negotiation. Be open to discussion and ready to compromise where necessary.
- Manage Emotions: Keep a handle on your feelings. Stay focused on resolution, not retribution.
- Future Proofing: Keep the end in mind. The best outcome is one where both parties know the minimization of conflict is beneficial for everyone involved and work accordingly.
Navigating Divorce Together with Our Phoenix Mediation Services
Going through a divorce doesn’t mean you have to travel the road alone or become embroiled in a bitter courtroom battle. Our Phoenix mediation services aim to help you navigate this challenging journey together, fostering communication and cooperation.
Our goal is to help you reach an agreement that is fair and beneficial, while minimizing the emotional strain and financial burden often associated with divorce. We are dedicated to providing the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.
Contact us to arrange a free consultation with our experienced mediation professionals, You can click the contact us button, or give us a call at 602-714-7447. You have the power to take the first step towards a more peaceful divorce process today.