Divorce Attorney vs Mediator: What Are the Differences?
Did you know that in America, the divorce rate is 2.9 per 1,000?
It is difficult to end a marriage for many reasons, but legally it may be the hardest when children are involved. Poor decisions made during divorce can have a lasting emotional effect on your children. Keep this in mind as you begin the process of ending your marriage.
Educating about the process can help you make positive decisions for yourself and your children. Let’s take a look at the differences between a divorce attorney vs mediator.
Difference Between Divorce Attorney vs Mediator
A divorce attorney is a lawyer who specializes in representing clients who are seeking a divorce. Divorce attorneys are trained in the legal process of divorce and can therefore provide their clients with advice and representation in court. Divorce attorneys are also typically more expensive than mediators.
Attorneys often charge by the hour, while mediators usually charge a flat fee. In addition, divorce attorneys may require their clients to pay a retainer fee, an upfront fee used to cover the attorney’s costs. If you want to know about family law, you should consider a divorce attorney.
A divorce mediator is a person who facilitates communication between two or more people to help them reach an agreement. On the other hand, Mediators are not trained in the legal process and cannot provide their clients with legal advice.
Mediation is typically less expensive than hiring a divorce attorney. This is because mediation does not involve going to court, which can be costly. Mediation is often quicker than going through a traditional divorce, as it does not require as much paperwork or court appearances.
Child Custody
When it comes to child custody, a divorce attorney may try to push for one party to have primary control, while a mediator will work to find a custody arrangement that is in the child’s best interests. Mediation is often a better option for child custody as it can help ensure that both parents remain involved in the child’s life.
Property Division
Both professionals can help you divide up your property, but there are critical differences between the two services.
A divorce attorney will file the necessary paperwork with the court and work with you to negotiate a settlement with your spouse. If you cannot agree on a payment, your case will go to trial, and a judge will decide on how to divide your property.
A mediator does not file paperwork or represent either party in court. Instead, a mediator facilitates communication between you and your spouse to help you reach an agreement. If you cannot reach an agreement, the mediator will provide information and make recommendations to the court but will not make a binding decision.
Hire Depends on Your Specific Situation
If you are considering getting a divorce, you may wonder if you should hire a divorce attorney vs mediator. While both professionals can help you through the process, there are some key differences to consider. Ultimately, the decision of which professional to hire depends on your specific situation.
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