When people are looking to get a divorce and getting advice from friends and family, a question that consistently arises is "so what exactly is the differnece between a divorce mediator and a divorce lawyer?" There are many similarities between the 2 with some very distinct differences as well. Let's explore some of the distinctions:
Divorce Costs
With a divorce mediator, the costs are usually a fraction of the cost of a traditional divorce lawyer. The average cost of a divorce mediator is $3000-$6000 whereas the cost of a divorce lawyer can run about $25,000+ in fees. The primary reason for this is that mediators typically charge by a fixed rate and not hourly. If you are charged hourly you are technically getting billed for every little conversation that you have. And it doesn't make sense for a lawyer to finish the case as quickly as they can if they are being paid hourly.
Less Stress
Divorce is one of the most stressful situations that individuals may have in their entire lives, Not only can it take its toll on you, but also your children and family. Divorce mediators work diligently to take the stress out of the equation, allowing individuals to speak in a comfortable atmosphere without having to go back and forth through their lawyer to communicate correctly. This can be extremely stressful if you have found a lawyer who views your case as a money maker.
Peaceful Process
Fighting just doesn't get us very far, no matter what the argument or fight is over! And it leads to even more tension and stress. Divorce mediation helps solicit a peaceful process from both parties, and we DO NOT TAKE SIDES. Our only goal is to get you to the finish line in the most peaceful process possible.
Time
A traditional divorce lawyer, if you choose to go the litigation route, can take months and months to come to a conclusion. You are also stuck waiting for the courts to have an opening to begin hearing your case. The longer the divorce process goes, the more expensive. Mediation will keep you out of court and settle your case on your own time.
WHile there are routes for using a divorce lawyer, couples usually come to the exact same conclusion that they would have with a divorce mediator, but having spent thousands more than they would have.
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