Divorce Mediation in Virginia: A Smarter Way to Settle Your Divorce
Getting divorced in Virginia doesn’t have to mean a drawn-out, expensive courtroom battle. For many couples in Virginia, divorce mediation offers a more private, cooperative, and cost-effective way to resolve disputes and finalize the terms of a divorce.
At Schwartz Kalina, PLLC, we guide clients through mediation with skill, clarity, and compassion, helping them reach agreements that support their future. If you’re considering divorce or are already in the process, understanding how mediation works and its many advantages can help in making informed decisions for yourself and your family.
How Divorce Mediation in Virginia Works
Mediation involves having both spouses work with a neutral third party, called a mediator, to resolve important issues in a Virginia divorce. These may include property division, child custody, child support, and spousal support. Unlike a judge, the mediator doesn’t make decisions. Instead, they help both parties communicate effectively and reach mutually acceptable agreements.
Guidelines for mediation are listed under the Virginia Code. Here’s what you can typically expect when going through divorce mediation in the Virginia Family Court:
- Initial consultation: Both you and your spouse meet with the mediator to discuss goals and outline the main issues to resolve.
- Identify key issues: The mediator will review financial records, parenting schedules, and other relevant documents to identify and address key issues.
- Negotiation: The parties, with or without their legal representatives, work through each issue under the mediator’s guidance.
- Drafting an agreement: Once they agree, the mediator prepares a written settlement agreement, which can then be reviewed by each of their lawyers before it is submitted to the court and incorporated into a final divorce order.
The Benefits of Divorce Mediation
Mediation requires you to be flexible and cooperative in resolving property division, child custody, and other divorce-related issues with your soon-to-be former spouse. It can be a healthier, more respectful path through Virginia divorce proceedings and offers several key benefits:
- Cost-effective: Mediation generally costs less than traditional litigation because it reduces court appearances and legal fees.
- Time-saving: It allows you to resolve your case quicker than going to court.
- Private and confidential: Mediation happens in a private setting and is not part of the public court record.
- Flexible and customized: Spouses can create tailored agreements that fit their needs, rather than a one-size-fits-all court ruling.
- Better for families: Mediation encourages cooperation, which is particularly important in custody arrangements.
- Greater control: You and your spouse make the final decisions, not a judge unfamiliar with your family dynamics.
Talk to Our Virginia Divorce Lawyer About Mediation Options
At Schwartz Kalina, PLLC, we believe that divorce doesn’t have to be combative to be effective. We provide trusted legal advice to clients considering mediation and protect their interests throughout the process.
If you’re seeking a more amicable and cost-effective way to end your marriage, we can help you determine whether mediation is the right choice. Call or contact us online today to schedule a consultation with our experienced Virginia divorce lawyer.
Sources:
loudoun.gov/114/Juvenile-Domestic-Relations-District-Cou
law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title20/chapter6.1/section20-124.4/
