If you and your spouse have decided to divorce, you may have more questions than answers. Divorce is widely known as one of the most stressful life events and the divorce process can seem daunting and overwhelming. Johnson Mediation specializes in helping couples navigate the divorce process from start to finish. Here are some commonly asked questions about divorce, answered;
MN Divorce FAQ’s
- How long does the divorce process take? The divorce process can take as little as 6-12 weeks to 12-18 months. This depends on whether you choose mediation or traditional litigation for your divorce. Mediation generally takes 3-4 two-hour mediation sessions over the course of 6-12 weeks, while proceeding through the courts can take close to a year, as you will be at the mercy of lawyers and the court for scheduling.
- Do I need to hire a lawyer for divorce? You are not required to hire a lawyer to settle your divorce. If you decide to pursue mediation for your divorce, you and your divorcing spouse can work directly with a mediator, rather than an attorney (however you can hire a lawyer for the mediation process if you choose to). If you pursue litigation, you will need to hire a lawyer.
- What are my options for the divorce process? You have more options that you might think when it comes to settling the important aspects of your divorce. The traditional court process (litigation) will settle your divorce via the court system. In mediation, a neutral third party (mediator) will guide you through the process and help you arrive at solutions that work for you and your family. Litigation is generally seen as a battle, while mediation is a more collaborative process.
- How much does divorce cost? The cost of divorce also depends on how you decide to settle. If you work through the courts, you can expect to pay up to $15,000 (or more in some cases). Mediation costs significantly less – usually between two and ten times less than litigation.
- How will child custody work? If you elect to seek a mediated divorce, you and your spouse can develop a parenting plan that will work best for you and your family. If you litigate your divorce, your custody agreement will be developed by the court.
Successfully Navigate your Divorce
If you have more questions about the divorce process or would like more information about how mediation works, call the team at Johnson Mediation at 952-401-7599.
