Divorce Questions You May Need Addressed

There are few matters that can be more stressful than going through a divorce proceeding. These proceedings will require you and your spouse to address a variety of issues before the divorce can be finalized. For those that have never been through this process, it may seem overwhelmingly complicated. Having a couple of questions about these proceedings addressed will help you to be better informed about what to expect from your divorce. 

Is Divorce Mediation Is Always A Lengthy Process?

It is common for many jurisdictions to require divorcing couples to go through mediation to resolve the questions and disputes surrounding the divorce. Mediation is designed to help reduce the workload on the courts by providing divorcing couples with a way to address these issues without taking up valuable court resources. 

Fortunately, mediation is usually a relatively quick option for resolving disputes. During this approach to conflict resolution, a mediator will act as a messenger and moderator to help you and your spouse negotiate the most contentious issues of the divorce. Common issues discussed during this process are custody of children and division of the couple's most valuable assets.

What Should You Expect From The Child Custody Evaluation?

If you and your spouse are unable to resolve the matter of custody through mediation, the judge may order a child custody evaluation. These evaluations are designed to provide the judge with the information needed to decide which parent can provide the best environment for the child. 

During these evaluations, an independent professional that specializes in child wellness will visit both parents. This evaluation will consider a host of factors including such things as your ability to spend time with the child, provide a comfortable and safe environment. Your attorney will be able to help prepare you for this visitation by helping you present your strengths as a parent in the most effective manner possible.  If you wish, you will be allowed to have your attorney present during these evaluations, and they can help ensure that you are not asked questions that violate your rights. 

Divorcing your spouse is a major ordeal, and it is important for you to be informed about what to expect. For those that have never been through a divorce, knowing that mediation is often a quick and cost effective way of resolving contentious issues as well as what the child custody evaluation will be like should help you to be as prepared as possible for these proceedings. For more information, talk to a lawyer like Harold Salant Strassfield & Spielberg.