Divorce mediation Long Island offers more benefits than increased speed and reduced costs as compared to a traditional divorce that winds its way through the New York state court system.  One of the most important advantages it offers is a less stressful way to settle financial and child-related issues so that a divorce can be amicable rather than adversarial.  According to Lisa T. Sofferin, who works as a mediation attorney for the federal court system, divorce mediation is a way of solving disputes without the long, bloody battle.”

Divorce Mediation Long Island Requires Skill

One thing that makes the difference is a skilled mediation attorney who knows how to get past the emotional baggage a couple carries so that true communication can take place.  Mediation attorneys receive training in how to facilitate conversations so that they can accomplish true dispute resolution rather than degenerate into the name-calling and animosity that is typical of some divorces that take place without the advantage of mediation.

These skills are critical, says Julie Loesch, who directs a family services resolution center.  “We can listen to people in a conflict and hear what lies underneath what they’re saying.  We can see what’s truly important to them and it’s often different than what they’re saying.”

Depending on the couple's needs and preferences, they may choose to work with a single mediation attorney who guides them without bias, or with a mediation attorney for each spouse.