If you and your spouse jointly decide to get a divorce in Birmingham, the process is relatively simple. You can complete everything online and can expect to get your divorce decree within weeks. There is a waiting period of 30 days in Alabama, and depending on the caseload of the county court, you may have to wait a little longer. Get a Birmingham divorce lawyer who will help you draft a marital agreement and will take care of the legal steps. Contested divorces, on the contrary, are often complex and require time. When you and your spouse are incapable of reaching an agreement on important terms, you will have a contested divorce. Instead of relying on the judge to decide on all aspects, you can consider divorce mediation. Here’s what you need to know.
The basics
Even when you are having a contested divorce, you cannot expect the court to start hearing the case immediately. In fact, in most counties, courts require the couple to attend at least one mediation session. Mediation allows the parties to negotiate and discuss the points of conflict and reach an agreement. Sometimes, couples attending divorce mediation end up agreeing to most things, while other aspects are decided by the court. Mediation is considered an alternative means of dispute resolution instead of going for a hearing before the Circuit Court judge.
Working with a lawyer
Get an attorney before you go for divorce mediation. Many lawyers know mediators and can help you schedule sessions. The mediator will remain neutral, and your attorney can negotiate on your behalf. If you choose the option, ensure that you remain flexible so an agreement can be finalized. You can be honest with the mediator and tell them about your ideal outcome. Your lawyer will represent you in the process and ensure that certain non-negotiable aspects are not compromised.
Should you consider divorce mediation?
Through divorce mediation, you will have control over the process. If you let the court decide everything for you and your spouse, the eventual outcome can drastically differ from what you probably hoped for. Get an attorney to know how you can deal with the conflicts better, and as long as you are not fueled by ego, you can expect the divorce mediation process to work. Mediation is private and allows you to have a conversation with the other party and their lawyer instead of arguing in court.
Call a lawyer for more info on divorce mediation in Alabama.
