It depends. Many spouses who want to terminate their marriages want to get the process over with as quickly as possible. One partner may have begun a new relationship, another may be moving out of Washington State--or both partners have simply decided that their marriage problems are not able to be reconciled.

Divorce is usually a very complicated process. The quick-and-easy way out is not recommended except in the simplest of cases. For example, if a couple does not have children, does not have any shared debt, does not own a home or other large assets, earn comparable salaries, has been married for two years or less, and there is no alimony payment, a couple may pursue divorce without mediation. However, it is still a good idea to have an attorney review the final documents before the process is finalized.

If We Need Help With a Divorce, Why Should We Choose Mediation?

If the above situations do not apply to you, you should have an experienced mediator help you through the legal and financial aspects of your separation. It is very easy to make a mistake during a divorce proceeding—and those mistakes can last you the rest of your life. If you can speak openly and honestly with your spouse, mediation could work for you. The biggest benefits of mediation include:

  • Mediation is almost always faster and less expensive than going to court.
  • Couples learn how to work together for the benefit of their children. If you must have an ongoing relationship with your ex-spouse, mediation allows you to work out an agreement that works best for both of you, and does not unnecessarily disrupt your children’s lives.
  • You have more control. In mediation, you and your spouse will be able to split assets however you choose and decide on your own custody agreement rather than leaving the decision to the court. Setting these terms yourselves allows you to build a future relationship that is more likely to work.

To find out if you and your spouse could benefit from divorce mediation, click the contact link on this page to set up a private consultation.

Molly B. Kenny
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Divorce and Child Custody Attorney Serving Bellevue and Seattle Washington