Alternative Dispute Resolution is a method that involves settling the issues in the divorce by yourself. Though some state laws make it compulsory to present in front of the court, it can be a matter of minutes rather than days and years, as in the case of a contested divorce trial. You can check with the divorce attorney Huntsville to know more about such methods.
Resolving the issues on your own can benefit both since it will save time and money for both partners. Typically it includes assessing the problems like,
-Property and debt division
-child custody and support
-alimony or spousal support
Once you discuss and agree on all of your issues, you can have a divorce lawyer make a marital settlement agreement. You will have to appoint a separate attorney to evaluate and review the agreement.
There are few methods of Alternative Dispute Resolution
1) Mediation
This method involves a neutral third party who tries to find a solution to help the couple settle. Mediators are usually expert child custody lawyers. Mediation is less stressful than a contested divorce.
Sessions are helpful and informal, and often the meeting takes place in the mediator’s office. It is cost-effective since you do not need an attorney in these meetings. However, there are certain couples who prefer to be accompanied by one.
2) Collaborative
Collaborative is similar to Mediation with the intent or purpose of settling a dispute, but it is structured differently. This method does not involve Mediation; instead, it is a collaborative effort of both the spouses to reach an agreement with the help of their attorneys who specialize in these methods.
In almost all the states, these attorneys cannot represent the spouses in court proceedings if the collaborative approach fails.
Any experts like financial consultants, child custody specialists, etc., appointed for this method should be neutral to both parties.
3) Arbitration
Arbitration is another method; though not available in all the states, you may need to check with your local court. In this method, you can choose the judge, fix the dates and times to carry out meetings, and relax in evidence presence.
However, on the other hand, the decision passed out by the judge is final, and you, in most cases, cannot appeal.
Conclusion
Whichever method you choose for a settlement, all of them are costly and time-consuming. However better than trial proceedings in court which take years to reach a consequence.
