Does New Jersey Have Mandatory Mediation for Divorces?

Divorces are stressful, as they are complex emotional matters. However, many are so focused on the emotional issues that they fail to consider the legal complexities of the road ahead. If you are going through a divorce, you may be surprised to discover you have to participate in mandatory mediation. As such, it’s important to familiarize yourself with what you can expect during this process. The following blog explores mediation in further detail and why it’s in your best interest to connect with a Morris County divorce lawyer to help you through these complex matters.

How Does Mediation Work?

Mediation is a common form of alternative dispute resolution that is intended to help conflicting parties avoid litigating their case in court. Both parties will meet to discuss the circumstances of their argument and try to negotiate a compromise. These conversations are facilitated by a neutral third-party entity, the mediator. The mediator’s role is to move the conversation along and suggest solutions to certain issues. The mediator cannot take sides or provide legal advice to either party.

While mediation can be used in many types of disputes ranging from employer and employee disagreements to conflicts between landlords and tenants, it is frequently used to help a divorcing couple determine the outcome of their separation without appearing in front of a judge.

If I Get Divorced, Do I Need to Go to Mandatory Mediation?

In New Jersey, if you and your spouse cannot come to an agreement about the outcome of your divorce, a judge can order you to participate in mandatory mediation.

This is done for a number of reasons. To begin, the courts recognize the benefits of mediation, as this process can help free up the court system to move cases more quickly. Additionally, mediating a divorce can save both parties time and money, as they do not need to appear in front of a judge or take time off work. Similarly, mediating your divorce can offer more privacy in regard to your divorce. When you litigate, your personal details will become a public record. Finally, mediation can offer you more control over the outcome of your divorce, as you and your spouse are more familiar with your circumstances as opposed to a judge who will only hear the surface of your case before issuing a decision.

As you can see, there are many matters you must take into consideration when going through a divorce. That’s why connecting with an attorney from Haber Silber Russoniello & Dunn is in your best interest. Our firm understands how complex these matters can be which is why we are dedicated to fighting for you. Connect with us today to learn how we can guide you through these matters to help you transition into the next chapter of your life.