Is divorce mediation the best option for your divorce?

Divorce mediation is a method you may be able to use in your divorce to settle all issues. Sometimes, however, divorce mediation is not the best option, even though you may want to use it.

How will you know if divorce mediation is a viable option for resolving all or some of your divorce issues?

Ask and answer the following questions then discuss your circumstances with me or an experienced family law attorney licensed to practice in your state.

If you answer “yes” to all of the following questions, divorce mediation may be an option for you.

1. Do you and your spouse want to minimize conflict in your divorce?
2. Is your decision to divorce mutual?
3. Do you and your spouse communicate calmly and honestly?
4. Do you feel as though your spouse hears what you say and respects you?
5. Are you willing to fully disclose financial information to your spouse?
6. Will your spouse fully disclose financial information to you?
7. Are you willing and able to stand up for yourself in difficult situations?
8. Do you and your spouse generally agree on how the assets should be divided?
9. Do you and your spouse generally agree on how the debts should be divided?
10. Do you and your spouse generally agree on child custody and visitation?
11. Are your marital estate and issues uncomplicated?

If you answer “yes” to any of the following
questions, divorce mediation may not be best for you.

1. Are you intimidated or unable to say no to your spouse?
2. Is the decision to divorce one-sided (e.g., yours)?
3. Does your spouse want to reconcile?
4. Is your spouse quick to anger?
5. Is there a history of emotional or physical abuse in your relationship?
6. Is your spouse secretive about his finances?
7. Are your marital estate and issues complicated?
8. Do you and your spouse disagree about how the assets should be divided?
9. Do you and your spouse disagree about how the debts should be divided?
10. Do you and your spouse disagree on child custody and visitation?

This article is not legal advice. You should consult an attorney if you have legal questions that relate to your specific divorce.