Selecting Mediation Is Important When Children Are Involved
Mediation is a form of dispute resolution in which parents discuss how their children will be cared for following a divorce. The primary goal of mediation is to come to an agreement that’s best for the children. In order for mediation to be successful, both parents must be willing to communicate in a respectful and thoughtful way. By cooperating with one another to resolve all the important issues regarding the care and well-being of your children, the groundwork is laid for a wonderful co-parenting opportunity going forward.
Divorce mediation is not therapy or couple’s counseling, nor is it an attempt to reconcile your relationship. It is simply an opportunity for you to decide – together – the important decisions that will best benefit your children. The types of issues that will be discussed in mediation may be health, insurance; education and religious training, where your children will live, exchange schedules for parenting time, activities, discipline, etc.
In most cases, there are distinct advantages to mediation; for instance, it takes less time than the conventional divorce process, and you both retain control over the decisions about your children. When you are willing to listen to one another and see that your children’s needs are met, it is a far better solution than a drawn-out, public battle in court. By reaching a mutual agreement that you can both live with, you don’t have to rely on a judge to decide but instead, find workable solutions that you can all live with.
When you choose mediation, you are much more likely to comply with the agreements you created together going forward. Importantly, you will learn how to handle any problems that occur after the divorce. Not only that, but you will also save time and money by not having to go back to court, and your family – in particular your children – will reap the benefits.
Your mediator will provide you with legal information to support you in making informed decisions. Once a final agreement has been reached, it will be presented to the court for a judge’s review. The judge must approve the final agreement to ensure it is in the best interests of your children. If a complete agreement on all issues is not reached, your attorneys will try to negotiate, but if the issues are not resolved, the matter will go to court, and the judge will make all the decisions regarding how your children will be parented. Choosing mediation enables you and your spouse to decide what is best for your children.
At The Hill Law Firm, P.C., we have extensive knowledge regarding the divorce mediation process and provide competent, compassionate mediation services. We are committed to making what is often a difficult experience better for clients and their families. Our mediation services are available throughout the greater Kansas City metro area and the Northland.
The Hill Law Firm, P.C.
913-381-1500
