Why choose Mediation over Litigation?

Family law mediation is often considered better than litigation for several reasons:

Cost Effective

Lower Costs: Mediation generally costs significantly less than litigation because it involves fewer legal fees, court costs, and other related expenses.
Time Saving: Mediation is typically faster than the litigation process, which can drag on for months or even years.

Control and Flexibility:

Personal Control: In mediation, the parties have more control over the outcome as they work together to reach a mutually acceptable agreement, rather than having a decision imposed by a judge.
Flexible Solutions: Mediation allows for creative and customised solutions tailored to the specific needs of the family, which might not be possible in a court ruling.

Confidentiality:

Private Process: Mediation is a confidential process, meaning the discussions and agreements are not part of the public record. This can help protect the privacy of the parties involved.
Open Communication: The confidentiality of mediation encourages open and honest communication between parties, which can lead to better outcomes.

Preservation of Relationships:

Amicable Environment: Mediation fosters a more collaborative and less adversarial environment, which can help maintain or even improve relationships, especially important when children are involved.
Reduced Conflict: By promoting cooperation and communication, mediation often reduces the emotional strain and conflict associated with litigation.

Focus on Best Interests:

Child-Centred: Mediation tends to focus more on the best interests of the children, providing a less contentious atmosphere that can be beneficial for their well-being.
Holistic Approach: Mediators can address various aspects of family dynamics, not just legal issues, ensuring a more comprehensive resolution.

Empowerment and Satisfaction:

Empowerment: Parties are more empowered in mediation as they play an active role in crafting the agreement, which can lead to greater satisfaction with the outcome.
Higher Compliance: Agreements reached through mediation often have higher compliance rates since both parties have contributed to and agreed upon the terms.

Reduced Stress:

Less Formal: The mediation process is typically less formal and intimidating than court proceedings, reducing the stress and anxiety often associated with litigation.
Supportive Environment: Mediators are trained to facilitate discussions in a supportive manner, helping parties to feel heard and understood.

Overall, family law mediation offers a more amicable, cost-effective, and flexible approach to resolving disputes compared to the often adversarial and costly process of litigation.