Some might say that divorce has garnered a negative stigma. Oftentimes, when people think of divorce, images of a long, emotional battle with a spouse come to mind. While these images are not far from the truth in some divorces, the divorce process is not always have to be that contentious. For example, divorce mediation, or another form of alternative dispute resolution, can often help to solve issues between couples considering divorce or separation.
Real House Wives of Orange County star, Vicki Gunvalson, recently announced her intention to divorce her longtime husband. The couple has met with a mediation attorney in an attempt to settle their divorce outside of the sometimes contentious atmosphere of the courtroom. The couple has been separated for over two years, and although Vicki filed for the divorce and is currently dating someone new, she has expressed sadness about her marriage ending.
Mediation is an alternative dispute technique that allows for couples to talk about their issues and come to solutions that are sensible and can benefit both parties. The couple, with the assistance of the mediator, can has out many issues that may arise during the divorce process, such as child custody and support, alimony, division of marital property and other issues.
Mediators have no authority to make decisions for either party and are only there to facilitate the process of getting the couple to come to an agreement that suits both parties and children, if there are any. Mediation may be a better option for many couples that are seeking a divorce as it allows the couples to maintain control over the outcome of the divorce and is less confrontational than traditional means.
Source: Examiner, "Vicki Gunvalson moving towards finalizing divorce from husband Donn Gunvalson," Meredith McBride, Jan. 31, 2013
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