Collaborative Divorce vs. Mediation in Pennsylvania

Written by Anthony Piccirilli

Ending a marriage is no small decision. Whatever your situation may be, that choice is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. With the emotional impact a divorce can have, it makes sense that you may not know exactly how to proceed. Two options you have are collaborative divorce and mediation. Collaborative divorce has many advantages. It keeps communication open. In turn, this dialogue helps ensure that you and your spouse are expressing your wants and needs throughout the process directly to each other. In some cases, however, cooperation just isn’t an option. If you and your spouse are not on the best terms, mediation can help you keep focused on what’s best for everyone involved.

If you’re looking for a skilled divorce lawyer to help you through the often challenging legal process of divorce, contact Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC today. We will help you fight for the best possible case outcome. We do not provide mediation services, but are happy and willing to explain the process. Call (412) 471-5100 today, or reach out online to schedule a confidential case consultation.

Choosing a Collaborative Divorce Instead of Mediation

Collaborative divorce is something of a combination of mediation and the traditional divorce method. In a collaborative divorce proceeding, you and your partner would each hire an attorney to represent you through the process. You and your attorney will then sign a participation agreement. This is a document that states your intent to use collaborative methods. Next, you’ll have several meetings with your spouse and their lawyer to arrange the terms of your divorce. During this process, other specialists may be brought in as needed, such as experts in child care, education, or mental health. Mediators may also be brought in during the collaborative process to decrease any emotional tension.

How Mediation Works

Mediation is a process where a third party guides you through the issues of finalizing your divorce. This includes assigning financial resources and other possessions. If there are children involved, a mediator will also help you establish a visitation and custody schedule. It is not necessary for your mediator to be a lawyer. Whoever you decide you choose as your mediator, they will need to perform such services as:

• Establishing what issues you and your spouse must resolve or agree on
• Helping you gather or find relevant information to come to agreements on those issues
• Easing any tension that may arise between you and your spouse
• Helping you understand what decisions you are making
• Helping you comprehend who those decisions are affecting, such as your children or other family members
• Drafting required paperwork for the divorce

Going Through a Divorce? Have Someone Who Knows the Law on Your Side

The end of a marriage is an emotional time. With so many feelings to deal with at once, procedural protocol may be the furthest thing from your mind. Whichever divorce method you choose, having someone on your side who understands divorce law can only help. If you’re going through a divorce in Pennsylvania, contact Pittsburgh Divorce & Family Law, LLC for help today. Call (412) 471-5100, or reach out online to schedule an initial case evaluation today.