It’s not uncommon to feel several emotions when you and your spouse decide to divorce. Whether you feel betrayed, guilty, or angry, these matters can only be made worse when you learn that the details of your divorce will become a public record. If you’re looking to keep these matters private, it’s important to understand your options. One choice is to utilize mediation, which is a confidential option that allows you and your spouse to take greater control of the outcome of your divorce. If you’re interested in learning more about this option and how it keeps your information private, you’ll want to keep reading and contact our Tampa divorce mediators for additional details.
How Does Mediation Work?
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that is often utilized for divorcing couples who cannot come to an agreement on certain matters at stake in their divorce. Rather than litigate the dissolution of marriage, which can be a lengthy, time-consuming process, mediation allows the couple to take matters into their own hands.
This process works by having the couple meet with a mediator. This is a neutral third-party entity that is responsible for facilitating and guiding the conversations so that the couple may eventually reach an agreement. You should understand that the mediator is not there to choose sides, provide legal advice, or reach agreements on behalf of either party. Instead, they are there to move the conversation along and offer potential compromises based on each party’s feelings and desires.
Why Is Mediation Confidential?
One of the many reasons couples voluntarily choose mediation is due to the confidentiality of these matters. Many couples, regardless of their social standing, want to keep these matters private given their nature. As such, mediation is an ideal option for many. Unlike litigation, everything said in mediation is kept private. This can provide peace of mind that the details of your divorce won’t be readily available to the public.
One of the reasons mediation works so well is that both parties feel comfortable enough sharing their feelings as they can trust that the information divulged will not leave the room.
It is important to understand that mediators are mandated reporters. As such, if they have reason to believe that a child is being abused or neglected based on the information shared during the session, they must report it to the proper authorities in accordance with Florida state law. However, other information shared will not be disseminated.
As you can see, the confidentiality of mediation is one of the significant benefits you can reap from this process. If you’re interested in this option instead of litigating your divorce, the team at Tampa Law Group is ready to assist you. We understand how complicated these issues can be, which is why we are prepared to guide you through this process so you can move on to the next chapter of your life. Contact our firm today for more information.