Going through a divorce comes with many challenges. When you put children into the mix, things tend to get even more complicated. Perhaps you are like other Houston parents in that you fear handling your child custody issues will turn into an all-out battle.
Some parents may have to go that route due to the nature of their relationship or some other circumstance that makes it necessary. However, if you are able, you could get through coming to a custody agreement and creating a parenting plan without feeling as though you went through a war.
Mediation could provide the answer
It’s no longer necessary to go to court to resolve any divorce issues, including child custody. More families are turning to mediation in order to avoid the stress of the traditional adversarial process. In addition to lower stress levels, mediation offers the following benefits:
- The less stressed you and the other parent are, the less stress your children feel through this process. The easier you can make it on them, the better off you will all be as you transition into a new way of life.
- The process encourages you to look toward the future and doesn’t allow for blame. Under these circumstances, you can work toward a resolution freely.
- Mediation could teach you how to communicate better with the other parent. You will always share part of your lives since you have children together, and you need to be able to work together for their sakes.
- You can avoid any unnecessary arguments. Part of the mediator’s job is keeping you both on track instead of letting your negotiations spiral out of control, which can easily happen with the pressure you may feel you are under.
- One of the most important parts of mediation is that it isn’t adversarial. Instead, the process encourages cooperation and compromise.
Another advantage that has little to do with your family’s emotional state, but is an important factor nevertheless, is money. Mediation tends to cost less since you won’t spend time in and out of court. One thing mediation can’t do is protect your rights. You will more than likely still need your own legal representation to help you.