Alternative Divorce Methods in New York | What to Know

If you are getting divorced, you may be trying to avoid litigation. This is because it can be a long, stressful, and expensive process. While litigation may be the best option for some, others may turn to alternative divorce methods to settle the matters of their divorce. Read on to learn more about the various options available in New York.

What to Know About Mediation

Mediation involves a neutral third party helping a couple work through the matters of their divorce. Mediation is the most popular way to settle a divorce out of court. This is because it has the following benefits:

• Control: With a divorce through litigation, a judge makes decisions about a couple’s marital issues. Mediation gives the spouses control and lets them make their own decisions about the terms of their divorce.
• Confidentiality: Mediation is confidential. Neither spouse nor the third party involved is permitted to share information in mediation or use it against one another. This allows spouses the chance to be open and honest with one another.
• Speed: Mediation is typically a quicker process than other methods of divorce. The duration may depend on the couple and how many marital issues must be resolved.
• Cost: Unlike divorcing through litigation, mediation is cost-friendly. Divorce through litigation can become expensive for the couple as well as the state of New York.
• Choice: Couples have the option to participate in mediation, they are not required to. It is a voluntary process that lets spouses reach positive decisions on their own.
• Family: When a couple uses mediation, it usually benefits any family involved. Trials can often be difficult for spouses, while mediation allows for healthy conversations to take place. This is beneficial for those with children in the family.

What are the Other Options?

Mediation is not for everyone. Instead, some couples choose to partake in a collaborative divorce. This entails a series of four-way meetings with the couple and their respective attorneys. Additionally, they may employ further outside help, like psychologists, forensic accountants, and more. Another good option may be arbitration. Arbitration is similar to mediation in that it involves a neutral third party helping the couple determine the matters of divorce. But, the arbitrator acts as a judge and can make important decisions on behalf of the couple.

Reach out to our firm to discuss your options today.

Contact our experienced Nassau County firm

The Pollack Law Firm, P.C., rated Nassau County’s “BEST” divorce lawyers and proudly serving clients in Nassau and Suffolk County for more than 22 years, is always available to assist and represent parties in divorce, separation and all other matrimonial and family law matters. Contact us online or call today to schedule your complimentary case analysis: (516) 938-3330.