Why Use Mediation for Child Custody

April 26, 2018

Child custody can be one of the most contentious issues of a divorce. Parents in Pennsylvania who are getting a divorce may consider in engaging in mediation to resolve their child custody disputes.

Child custody mediation is an alternative to engaging in litigation. In this collaborative process, the goal is to obtain resolutions that are in the best interests of the children. During mediation sessions, parent can work with one another and create a parenting plan that takes into account the contributions that both parents can provide for their children.

Another benefit of child custody mediation is that the process is much easier on the children than litigation.

Contested divorces can be extremely adversarial as the job of the attorneys for both parties is to take the necessary step to advocate for their client’s interests and rights. This can result in the children been stuck in the middle of a situation full of conflict. In contrast, mediation centers the focus of all parties on the welfare of the children. Divorcing parents may also appreciate the neutrality of the mediator. A mediator who is well-trained and professional can help guide discussions towards a common goal. The purpose of the process is to create a mutually agreeable plan that allows both sides to work together. Under the careful, unbiased guidance of the mediator, both parents may find new methods for arriving at resolution together.

An attorney who practices collaborative law may consider the circumstances of a client’s divorce and advise whether divorce mediation might be a viable option for settling their particular divorce disputes regarding child custody, alimony, child support and property division. The attorney may work to protect the client’s rights and interests in negotiation meetings during the mediation process.

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