Many of our readers have questions about the divorce process - perhaps they are in the planning stages of filing for divorce, or maybe they are right in the middle of everything. For some, issues like child custody and property division are the most pressing concerns. For others, just getting through the divorce process is enough of a goal. But, for most, there is a potential solution to many issues: family mediation.
While most people know about the overall benefits of using mediation in a divorce - less time, money and emotional stress - those same people probably have more specific questions about mediation. Divorce mediation in Rhode Island is a private process. Each mediation session usually lasts about two hours, at which time the two parties will meet with a facilitator who is a third-party that maintains neutrality.
From there, the success or failure of the mediation process really rests with the divorcing spouses - can they put aside any bitterness or ill-will to the extent that they are able to focus on the task at hand and get through the decision-making process that comes with a divorce? If so, an agreement can be drafted and presented to a judge for approval. We try to separate the problem from the personalities and resolve the dispute.
Ultimately, the family mediation process in Rhode Island is all about trying to find a solution to the issues that are unique to your divorce. In many divorces, there will be "sticking points" when negotiations might break down. In these types of cases, mediation can be a useful tool to break an impasse.
Source: court.ri.gov, "Frequently Asked Questions Family Court Mediation Program," Accessed April 16, 2017
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