To Mediate or Not?
When a Successful Outcome Is Likely
Most divorce cases aren’t settled in court, and mediation generally provides a faster, less stressful, and more affordable resolution. Thankfully, either party can choose to walk away from a mediation, so there’s not a lot to lose by trying — but success is more likely when the following factors are present. It’s an amicable or mutual split. Mediation is best for couples who want to complete the process quickly or aren’t looking to cause each other additional pain. If one or both parties is feeling spiteful or vindictive — or if one spouse is trying to draw out the process in hopes of winning their partner back — a fair agreement is unlikely to come from mediation. There’s no history of abuse. Abusive spouses will generally try to use the divorce process to inflict pain on their victim. If the victim initiates the divorce, the abuser will likely be furious that their spouse is leaving and try to regain control with outrageous demands. Even if the abuser is the one who filed, their narcissistic behavior makes it unlikely they’ll be willing to let their victim “win” the proceedings. Both parties are knowledgeable about and forthcoming with finances. It’s common for one spouse to have more knowledge of the household’s finances than the other. In these cases, a discovery process will be needed to locate all assets
so a fair settlement can be reached. If both spouses are familiar with the household’s financial situation and willing to provide documentation, however, mediation is more likely to go smoothly. The couple already agrees on custody terms . Custody battles can quickly turn acrimonious, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Due to existing work arrangements and caretaking duties, both spouses might agree where their children should live all or most of the time. When this is the case, it will be far easier to reach a settlement — plus, it will be easier on the kids. Mediation doesn’t mean you have to go it alone — lawyers can be, and often are, involved in the process. A person is much more likely to reach a fair settlement with the help of an experienced attorney who understands and can represent their interests. If you know someone who is going through a divorce, Bruce Law Firm can provide compassionate yet firm representation — in mediation or in court.
Have a LAUGH
Easy Cranberry- Apple Salad
Inspired by CookieAndKate.com
Want the taste of fall without the calories? Try this quick and easy salad, topped with homemade apple cider vinaigrette.
Ingredients
For the salad: •
For the dressing: •
1/4 cup dried pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup olive oil
• •
5 cups salad mix
• • • •
1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 Granny Smith apples, chopped into bite- size pieces
1 1/2 tsp honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard
• •
1/3 cup dried cranberries
Salt and pepper to taste
1/3 cup goat cheese, crumbled
Directions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, toast the pumpkin seeds until fragrant, then set aside. 2. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients, then set aside. 3. Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing until lightly coated, then toss and serve!
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