Divorce Mediation
What is Mediated Divorce?
Mediated divorce in Georgia involves using a neutral third party, known as a divorce mediator, to help spouses reach an agreement on various issues related to their divorce.
The mediator's role is to facilitate communication and negotiation between the spouses, assisting them in finding common ground and resolving disputes. This process is an alternative to a litigated divorce, where decisions are made by a judge in court.
How Does Mediated Divorce Work?
Here's an overview of how mediated divorce typically works in Georgia:
Choosing a Mediator:
The spouses, with the guidance of their attorneys or on their own, select a qualified mediator. The mediator should be neutral, experienced in family law, and skilled in conflict resolution.
Initial Meeting: The mediator meets with both spouses to discuss the divorce process, the issues that need to be addressed (such as child custody, alimony, property division, and support), and the goals for the mediation.
Identifying Issues: The mediator helps the spouses identify and prioritize the issues that need resolution. This may include gathering information about the spouses' assets, debts, and any other relevant details.
Negotiation and Communication: The mediator facilitates discussions between the spouses, encouraging open communication and helping them explore options for reaching agreements. The goal is to find compromises that both parties can accept.
Drafting Agreements: Once the spouses reach agreements on all relevant issues, the mediator assists in drafting a legally binding divorce agreement. It is important for each party to have their own attorney review the agreement to ensure their rights and interests are protected.
Filing with the Court: The finalized agreement is then submitted to the court for approval. If the court approves the agreement, it becomes part of the divorce decree.
Benefits of Mediated Divorce
Cost-Effectiveness: Mediation can be more cost-effective than a litigated divorce, as it often requires less time in court and reduces legal fees.
Control: Spouses have more control over the outcome of their divorce and can actively participate in the decision-making process.
Confidentiality: The mediation process is confidential, promoting a more open and honest exchange of information.
How Long After Mediation is Divorce Final in Georgia?
Mediation is a low-conflict approach to getting a divorce in Georgia. With any path or process to getting a divorce the objective is achieving agreement on all pertinent aspects. When agreement has been reached, the lawyers will prepare the final draft of the Settlement Agreement. The court will review the Agreement to approve or require changes. Once approve your divorce decree can be granted and finalized. This process can be as short as a few days.
How Much Does Divorce Mediation Cost in Georgia?
The cost for any divorce varies depending on the amount of litigation required to reach mutual agreement on all points. For this question, we will defer to the DivorceNet.com website which shows an average cost of $3,000 to $8,000.
Will Mediated Divorce Work for Me?
It's essential to note that while mediation works well for some couples, it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly in cases involving domestic violence, extreme power imbalances, or situations where one party is unwilling to negotiate.