Make no mistake, even the most amicable divorce can be emotionally taxing. If you share a child with your spouse, one of the most crucial yet challenging subjects you have to navigate is the child’s living arrangements going forward.
Most family courts encourage divorcing parents to work out a parenting plan that works for everyone involved while taking into account the best interests of the child. And one of the most effective approaches you can use to realize this is child custody mediation.
Understanding how child custody mediation works
Child custody mediation basically involves three parties: you, your co-parent and an unbiased third-party mediator. The mediator helps moderate the process by cooling tempers, informing the parties of the applicable custody laws and recommending resolutions for contentious issues that may arise.
Unlike litigation, mediation allows you to settle the subject of custody and parenting time without involving the court. The final agreement is then presented before the court for approval.
Here are two reasons why you should consider mediating your child custody matters.
1. It makes the divorce easier for the kids
Believe it or not, kids can easily pick up on the animosity between you and your spouse. And if they are old enough to understand what is going on, one parent might want to bring them to court to voice their preference regarding the parent they wish to live with after the divorce. Mediation can help you avoid all these.
2. It sets the stage for a healthy post-divorce co-parenting relationship
If you take your custody battle to court, you will be leaving it up to the court to impose a custody plan on you. Thanks to mediation, however, you can side-step the court drama and learn to collaborate and work out a parenting plan that puts your children first.
Child custody mediation is certainly worth considering if you are going through a divorce. Not only does it save money and offer privacy, but the resulting custody and co-parenting plan is often acceptable for everyone involved.
