Are you getting a divorce, and aren’t sure whether you should choose divorce mediation or a lawyer? Did you know that the divorce rate is 2.9 per 1,000 people?

In this article, explore the decision between divorce mediation vs lawyers and pick the right choice for you. Read on to explore all about the process and how choosing the right one can save you time and stress.

Divorce Mediation vs Divorce Lawyer

When you’re choosing between a lawyer vs mediation in divorce, it’s important to understand what each does. First, divorce mediation is a neutral third-party that will help out with coming to an agreement. They’ll help you and your former spouse come to an agreement in conflicts.

If you choose to go with a divorce lawyer, each state, even county, will have different requirements. If your former spouse has a divorce lawyer, it’s a good idea to get a lawyer for yourself.

It’s a way to ensure that you receive what’s fair for you during the divorce process. Your divorce lawyer and theirs will meet and come to a negotiation that’ll be fair for all involved.

Do I Need a Lawyer for Divorce Mediation?

During the mediation process, your mediator may or may not be your lawyer. You can find a mediating attorney if you’re looking for someone who has legal experience with divorces.

Keep in mind that who you choose for mediation is trained in it, and will provide you both with the proper mediation necessary. If you choose to go through divorce mediation, then a lawyer isn’t required. This is a good choice for those who decide to avoid litigation, court, and lawyers.

The Difference in Cost

While divorce mediation might cost a few thousand, divorce litigation can cost thousands of dollars. This will include mediation, agreements, filing fees, etc.

A quick and easy divorce might cost much less than say a more complex case. While a more complicated case in mediation can cost thousands of dollars.

How Long Does It Take? 

If you decide to go with divorce mediation, you can have it finished within a few months, while a litigated divorce can take a couple of years. If you and your former spouse can’t see eye to eye, it might be a good idea to lawyer-up since your lawyers can speak together, instead of you and your former spouse.

Divorce mediation will require you both to be in a room together and sit for an hour or 2. During this time you’ll need to come up with an agreement. While it might not occur during the first session, it can happen during the 2nd or 3rd.

Do I Have To Choose? 

If you decide to go through with mediation, it might be a good idea to have a lawyer there to represent you. Mediation doesn’t always work for everyone, and if you have a divorce lawyer present, they’ll be more familiar with your case.

When To Choose

Depending on the circumstance, a divorce lawyer might be better or divorce mediation. If you’re currently fearing for your life or your family’s, then a divorce lawyer might be a better option. Especially if there’s a restraining order, and that means you can’t be within close proximity to each other.

Divorce Lawyers

Some marriages might have a spouse who is hiding assets to keep more. If you can prove that your spouse is hiding debts or assets, it’s important to have a lawyer to figure out the best course of action.

Divorces can be messy and not always peaceful. If this is the case, consider a divorce lawyer. You don’t want to waste more time and money than is necessary, so sometimes it’s more advantageous to start out with a lawyer first.

Divorce Mediation

If you and your spouse both want to get the divorce process done sooner than later and want to come to an agreement, you can choose divorce mediation. Divorce mediation can be a quicker option, and save more money in the long-run.

This also allows you to have more control over the agreement that you both have. You can come to an agreement that meets your needs and requirements.

You should also choose divorce mediation if you want to keep the situation peaceful for you and your family. Keep in mind that messy divorces can have children in the middle, and a divorce is stressful enough for them.

While you don’t need to be great friends in order to do divorce mediation, it’s a great way to come to an agreement that’ll work for both of you.

Personality Traits

Another thing to keep in mind when choosing between divorce mediation vs divorce lawyers is yours and your former spouse’s personality traits. If you’re looking for someone to do most of the work, then a lawyer might be the better option. They’ll walk you through the process and do the mediation.

If you’re someone who wants more control over the situation and likes to do things on your own, then mediation might be the better option. For those ready to move on immediately, mediation is a good option to get it moving.

Deciding Between Divorce Mediation vs Lawyers

Now that you’ve explored deciding between divorce mediation vs lawyers, you should have a better idea of what’s the right fit for you. Looking to read more psychological content? For everything from depression to interesting facts and parenting advice, check out our other articles today.