Four Common Divorce Mediation Myths

Divorce mediation can be less expensive, less stressful, and less harmful to children than a court divorce. However, many couples still choose to bypass Washington State divorce mediation without taking time to consider the advantages. While divorce mediation is certainly not the answer for every couple seeking to separate, it can be the optimal option for others who are looking for a fair and quiet way to divorce.

What are some divorce mediation myths?

If I use divorce mediation, I can’t tell my story in court.

If you are unsure if divorce mediation is right for you, you can always stop the mediation and turn to litigation at any time you begin to feel that the situation is unfair or not ideal. Going to court continues to be an option once you’ve began mediation – once you go to court, it is more difficult and more expensive to stop proceedings and try mediation.

Mediation will only temporarily solve our problems.

A number of studies have confirmed that couples that use mediation not only go to court for related reasons in the future less frequently, but also that they have better relationships with each other and with their children.

Mediation is only for couples who are going through an amicable divorce or couples that want to make their relationship work.

Some people mistakenly believe that divorce mediation is simply a form of counseling – or a last to attempt to reconcile differences and get back together. This is certainly not the case. Mediation is simply a way to settle couple’s differences fairly outside of the courtroom. Mediators fully expect that the couple will not be friendly and will not always agree – that is what they are there for.

Only simple divorces can use mediation.

Some couple think that if they have children or if they have complicated financial issues that mediation is not a choice for them. But contrary to their beliefs, divorce mediation can handle even the most complex cases as long as both parties are willing to work toward a solution.