An adversarial setting for divorce is very often not in the best interests of couples and children.
Mediation can offer a fairer, more civilized, and more cost-effective alternative.
Skillful mediation helps a person identify his or her interests and gives each person an opportunity to be heard, even where there are financial, emotional, or other power imbalances between the members of the couple. The evidence to date suggests that mediated settlements in marital disputes simply last longer and work better than court-ordered settlements, because the divorcing couples themselves helped craft the agreement and therefore have a greater stake in making it work. This is especially important when children are involved or if future financial matters are at stake. Insurance benefits and tax issues Systems for future negotiation. Although mediation is not therapy, emotional issues may need attention in order to achieve agreement.