It may not seem like it, but you do, in fact, have a range of options as to how you and your spouse want to terminate your marriage. Even if you have the time and financial resources to engage in a protracted divorce, replete with reams of litigation, you would be well advised to avoid it if you are at all able to. If you would like to learn more about mediation and collaborative divorce in place of litigation, please continue reading, then contact a family law attorney well versed in the divorce process in New Jersey today.
What are mediation and collaborative divorce in New Jersey?
A divorce mediator is a trained and neutral third party who meets with a couple outside of a courtroom setting. Their job is to facilitate a productive conversation and ensure things stay civil while they work out their differences.
Mediation has the following benefits:
- Both spouses discuss options before making final decisions, saving time, money and stress
- You are better prepared for attorney consultations
- You can more easily move into your new life with dignity and confidence
Collaborative divorce is a settlement process offered as an alternative to traditional courtroom divorce. In a collaborative divorce, the divorcing parties commit in writing to engage in voluntary, non-adversarial and flexible negotiations with the goal of reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. This route has many of the same advantages as divorce mediation.
What is a litigated divorce?
On the other hand, couples engaged in litigated divorces do not agree on one or more of the issues and involve lawyers and/or the legal system to resolve them. This method takes much longer and costs couples way more. Additionally, it is all confrontational, meaning there is a high likelihood that the proceedings will descend into acrimony.
Each option has its benefits and pitfalls, which is why you would be well advised to reach out to a skilled Hackensack, New Jersey divorce lawyer to discuss your options and begin preparing the paperwork.
What is better in New Jersey: Collaborative Divorce and Mediation or Litigation?
That will ultimately rest on the unique circumstances of your case. While collaborative divorce and mediation dial down the proverbial temperature and settle matters equitably, you may, in some instances, have reasons for litigation. For example, if your spouse has subjected you or your children to abuse, it is understandable that you would want to limit or closely monitor his or her interactions with you and your children. In such a case, your spouse is not likely to admit to wrongdoing and agree to restricted access on his or her own. Most likely, he or she will contest that and, thus, the court will have to be involved.
Our firm can help you no matter which path you choose to take, so please give us a call today.
Contact Our Experienced Bergen County Firm
Whether you are getting divorced or are facing any other family law matter, you need competent legal assistance on your side. Our legal team is dedicated to fighting for individuals, their families, and their future. Contact HD Family Law today to schedule your initial consultation with our compassionate and experienced firm.
