What are the Benefits of Choosing Mediation Over Litigation in Pennsylvania?
In 2023, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania experienced just over 28,000 divorces, a divorce rate of 2.4%. While relatively low compared to other states, if you and your spouse are parting ways, you want to ensure that the terms you and your partner agree are sustainable. If you and your spouse are on amicable terms, you may consider mediation over taking your case to court.
Mediation is becoming a sought-after method of alternative dispute resolution, allowing couples to remain in control when determining important divorce-related issues. At Purdy Law Office, our mediation attorneys have mediated hundreds of cases, permitting couples to discuss their finances, family dynamics, and children’s needs in a nurturing environment.
Advantages of Mediation
Mediation can significantly reduce the stress of divorce by permitting couples to discuss alimony, child support, child custody, property division, and asset distribution in a non-intimidating environment. If you and your spouse are on the fence about how to proceed in your divorce matter, consider the following:
- Mediation is less time-consuming and more cost-effective than litigation
- Mediation grants couples the ability to maintain decision-making power in how important issues are decided
- Either spouse is free to discontinue mediation discussions at any time
- The process is private, unlike family law matters, which are typically open to the public
- Mediation empowers couples with the ability to come to a mutual agreement on important issues, with a mediator serving the role of a neutral party
- The discussions and related communications are privileged, so this information remains confidential and not subject to discovery. (Discovery is the formal process by which both parties exchange information).
Who Can Become a Mediator?
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania requires that a mediator have the following credentials:
- A bachelor’s degree and practical experience in law, psychiatry, psychology counseling, family therapy, or any comparable field
- Successful completion of basic training in a program approved by the Academy of Family Mediators
- Professional liability insurance
- Additional training consisting of 40 hours from a custody mediation program under the supervision of a mediator
Mediation and Equitable Distribution
Mediation allows couples to openly discuss what concerns them by opening the lines of communication. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania recognizes equitable distribution, requiring that divorcing couples share responsibility for any debts acquired during the marriage and equally divide any assets accumulated during the marriage.
Although the court considers several factors when determining the “fairest” way to divide marital property, a mediator will take a more holistic approach by enabling communication to help both parties compromise. Unfortunately, there is no tried-and-true formula for dividing marital property, but a mediator attempts to help both spouses see the other’s perspective. Whereas a mediator cannot provide independent counsel to either party, they can help to preserve the integrity and trust between you and your divorcing spouse. This can be invaluable when you and your spouse share children, requiring that you remain on friendly terms.
Reach Out to Our Harrisburg Mediation Attorneys Today
At Purdy Law Office, our Harrisburg mediation attorneys strive to help both parties reach an agreement that serves everyone’s needs. Many couples enjoy the relaxed approach our office takes in mediation, permitting them to discuss their concerns openly. If you want to learn more about the mediation process, do not hesitate to contact our Harrisburg mediation lawyers. To arrange a consultation, contact us online or call today.