The process involves a neutral third party facilitating communication between divorcing individuals within a specific geographic area in New York. This professional assists in reaching mutually agreeable decisions regarding asset division, child custody, and spousal support. As an example, consider a couple residing in Smithtown, Suffolk County, who choose to work with a qualified mediator to navigate the complexities of their separation, aiming for a less adversarial resolution than traditional litigation.
Choosing this approach offers several advantages. It often proves to be a more cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to courtroom battles. Further, it allows the involved parties to retain greater control over the outcome of their divorce, fostering a more amicable post-divorce relationship, particularly important when children are involved. Historically, utilizing such alternative dispute resolution methods has aimed to reduce the burden on the court system while empowering individuals to shape their own settlements.
