When you are sorting out the details of your divorce, you may struggle to determine which path to follow: divorce mediation vs. litigation. While individuals have found both avenues to work in their unique set of circumstances, you may find your case differs. Consulting with a divorce mediation lawyer can help you get the answers you want and determine the right course of action for your unique case.

An Overview of Divorce in Columbia, Missouri

If you are trying to determine whether you should pursue divorce mediation or litigation, you may feel overwhelmed. Perhaps you feel that your case may require that you take both paths at different times. Regardless of your worries and confusion, hiring a skilled and insightful lawyer can help you find peace of mind while pursuing your desired outcomes.

In 2023, Missouri experienced an overall divorce rate of 2.6. This means that the state falls in 23rd place for the highest divorce rate average in the United States. When it comes to getting a divorce, there are two main directions you can go: mediation or litigation.

Divorce Mediation vs. Litigation in Columbia, Missouri

Divorce is a multi-step process where both spouses need to determine what they want and what they have to offer. Some of the issues you will need to sort out are property division, child support, spousal support, and custodial rights. The process may be simplified if you do not have children, but that does not make it a simple process.

There are two main ways that you can pursue resolution in these areas, the first of them being mediation. Simply put, mediation describes the process where, with the guidance of a professional mediation lawyer, you proceed through the various steps of your divorce without the outside involvement of the Missouri court system.

One of the benefits of choosing this approach is that you and your soon-to-be former spouse can develop an agreement that suits your unique needs and desired outcomes instead of being forced to accept whatever the court decides.

Litigation can sometimes prove to be unavoidable, in which case you would go before a judge, most likely at the Boone County Courthouse, and present what you want to get out of your divorce. This is often utilized in cases where progress has reached a stalemate and choosing to compromise no longer appears to be an option, such as contested divorces or situations where one parent refuses to pay child support.

The Advantages of Mediation vs. Litigation

Mediation can prove to be an incredibly helpful process, especially with the help of a third-party moderator. Instead of getting lost in the overwhelming number of tasks to accomplish or the little feuds that keep compromise at bay, a mediation lawyer can help you move your case along, bringing peace and clarity to an intense situation. Here are some examples of how mediation may benefit your case:

  • It can be cost-effective: Mediation is almost always less expensive than litigation. When the need for multiple court appearances and the high fees of extensive legal battles is removed, you can end up saving yourself thousands of dollars and a whole lot of wasted time.
  • It can give you a greater amount of control: In mediation cases, you and the other party are equipped and given both the space and time to determine what works well for your unique case, instead of having a judge decide the terms of your divorce. This allows for you to reach agreements that you can tailor to your family’s needs and circumstances.
  • It can lead to reduced conflict: Mediation lawyers operate as non-partisan representatives whose main goal is to lead couples in productive and peaceful conversations. This means that, instead of hiring your lawyer to go yell at your spouse’s lawyer, you can work things out as a three-person team.
  • It can increase the likelihood of confidentiality: Mediation sessions are private and are not a part of the public record. This enables you to keep any sensitive financial and personal details out of the court record, granting you privacy and clarity.

Hire a Mediation Lawyer

There are many reasons an individual may want to hire a mediation lawyer. Firstly, mediation lawyers represent a third, non-biased party. This means that you have an agent of clarity and peace who will direct your discussions in a productive, creative, and beneficial way. They can also offer insight, advice, and guidance as needed.

In addition to that, your mediation lawyer can help you develop creative compromises that suit the needs and desired outcomes of both parties involved. Instead of having a judge tell you what to do, you can brainstorm unique agreements that better fit your family’s goals and needs.

Why You Should Choose the Stange Law Firm

Stange Law Firm has many locations, making it a large firm with national resources. Still, when it comes to building strategies and mediating between divorcing couples, we understand and believe in the value of personalized care. You and your family deserve the help you are seeking, and we are prepared to empower you in your pursuit of a better future.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Difference Between Mediation and Litigation in a Divorce Case in Missouri?

A: Mediation and litigation are two approaches a couple can take when they decide to get divorced. Mediation centers around creating a safe and confidential environment that enables divorcing couples to work together to develop a unique divorce agreement that suits many of their needs. Litigation, however, often involves opposition, as couples will go before a judge to seek a final ruling on what they want out of their divorce.

Q: What Is the Downside to Divorce Litigation in Missouri?

A: While in some cases litigation is inevitable, it can easily become expensive, time-consuming, and messy. You may also end up with an unsatisfactory ruling that leaves you with uncomfortable court orders. While contested divorces may benefit from litigation, there is usually no need for it in uncontested divorce cases.

Q: How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Mediation Lawyer in Missouri?

A: In Missouri, every divorce case is unique, so it can be difficult to determine a one-size-fits-all price. The level of complexity and the amount of time your case requires can have a big impact on the final cost you may pay. At Stange Law Firm, we work hard to make your expenditures feel worthwhile.

Q: What Should I Avoid Doing During My Divorce Mediation Proceedings in Missouri?

A: Divorce can be complicated, and there are several things you should avoid doing during the divorce mediation process. As is the case in most areas of life, it is always better to avoid berating and slandering your spouse during the mediation process. This only leads to stirring up dissension, and it can make it harder for you to accomplish your desired outcomes in the future. Seeking a peaceful compromise will almost always get you further in the end.

Get Representation Today

Divorce is an extremely difficult process to navigate. It may often leave you feeling alone, isolated, and judged. Those compounded feelings make it even more difficult to see that the next steps bring you closer to a new approach to life. Contact the Stange Law Firm today to schedule a consultation. We have the knowledge and experience that you can lean on to help you through challenging times.