The first thing you need to ask yourself is whether you really want a divorce. We’re not suggesting that if your marriage isn’t that bad, you might as well hang in there. No, we suggest that if you are hesitating or considering divorce because you and your spouse are angry with each other after you file the initial divorce petition and before going to court, you will have to fight your way through the discovery process. However, one thing to note is that this discovery only takes place if the divorce is contested or if you and your spouse are unable to come to an agreement during settlement negotiations. If you’ve been unable to treat each other with respect and honesty, there’s no better time to start than during the discovery process. This is the phase of your divorce that will cost you the most financially (and probably emotionally, too). So, to save money and the stress of a long battle, show all the integrity you can during this phase.
THE BAD NEWS
Start gathering documents once you have decided to divorce, there are several, so make sure you’re good to go when the process starts. Some of these documents include your marriage license, domestic contracts (like a prenuptial agreement), tax returns, and credit applications.
Many of the forms required by a divorce lawyer can be eliminated if the parties agree to Mediation.
THE GOOD NEWS
As Mediators we can usually save you many hours of preparation work. Mediation services can do the following in most cases.
First and generally always a factor is the costs of ligation. Using a lawyer and the court process you can expect to spend $12-15,000.
Most Mediated sessions cost less than $1,000.
There are no lawyers involved.
No public display as with the court system
No public disclosureNo lengthy time needed in a settlement.(a Mediation service can usually be completed in two sessions or less.)
The agreement is completed by the two parties, not by the legal system (lawyers and court.)
The agreed upon document is binding and can be submitted to the court and Judge for approval.
All of the process can be done in the comfort of your home.
The process is totally private and can be resolved in separate location if being across from each other is not desired. (Unlike a court room)
If children are involved the sessions are not traumatic for the child as in a court room with strangers.
Contact us for a one-on-one free session to see if we can help you.
Karen Williamson
karenwilliamson620@gmail.com
620-249-8261