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Mediation can be an extremely effective tool for many people going through a divorce. In the right circumstances it will reduce the amount of conflict between the couple and it will cut down on the cost of divorce.
However, divorce is not necessarily right for all couples. Here are some situations in which traditional divorce mediation is unlikely to be an effective means of resolving your divorce.
- Ongoing domestic violence: If there is ongoing domestic violence or emotional abuse, the power imbalance and fear that would be present in a mediation room simply is not conducive to success, and the abusive spouse might not permit mediation anyway. Seek assistance from hotlines, shelters or the police to get out of the marriage.
- A history of abuse or bullying: If abuse in your relationship stops short of domestic violence, it is still problematic and ultimately not conducive to success in mediation due to that power imbalance and fear.
- A lack of willingness to communicate: Mediation can work even for couples without good communication skills, but the spouses have to at least be willing to try to communicate. Anyone who is unwilling to cooperate will make mediation impossible.
- Concealment of assets: If you discover your spouse has been concealing assets or other information, it may be difficult to trust that they will mediate in good faith.
- Substance abuse: A spouse who has a substance abuse disorder and is not receiving treatment might make it difficult to get through mediation sessions effectively.
For more information about when to consider using mediation for your divorce, contact an experienced Minnesota divorce lawyer at Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A.
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