One of the major differences between a litigated divorce and a mediated divorce is time and money. A mediated divorce can often be resolved in as little as 4-6 weeks for just  a few thousand dollars (or less, if the couple resolves the financial and visitation issues  and prepares the papers themselves) while a litigated divorce may take years costing tens of thousands of dollars.

When couples decide to end their marriage, they need to establish fault and then demonstrate to the Court that they have made an equitable distribution of the marital assets, provided for child and/or spousal support and set forth parenting and visitation plans.  A couple can decide this together and then write it in court documents that are submitted to a judge for review and signing.  If they cannot determine some or all of these issues together, they can hire attorneys and litigate the issues, or, they can hire a mediator who can help them resolve those issues that they have not agreed upon.

Whatever process a couple chooses to use to end their marriage, considering the time and cost of their choice is worthwhile.

Tags: divorce, litigate, litigated divorce, mediate, mediated divorce, mediator, Sabra Sasson