St. Louis Family Law Process Options for Divorce and other Family Law Matters

There are many different St. Louis family law and divorce process options available to you, depending on your circumstances. While the idea of hiring a family lawyer might make you think of litigating disputes in a courtroom, there are other options available that don’t involve as much conflict or formality.

In addition to litigation or immediately going to court, it is possible to dissolve your marriage through the other processes. In fact, many family law disputes are resolved by reaching a mutual agreement and without the need of going to Court. A seasoned family law advisor can help you evaluate all your options.

Collaborative Divorce

Divorce has a reputation for contentious, costly court proceedings. While that is the case for many couples, it is important to understand that many parties resolve their divorces amicably.

Collaborative Divorce involves both sides attempting to resolve their marital issues before filing for divorce. Couples may participate in Collaborative Practice where a team of professionals help them resolve issues related to child custody, spousal support, and property division, among other things.

Mediation

Another useful tool during divorce and other family law disputes is mediation. Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution where both sides meet with a neutral third party to resolve their contested marital issues outside of court. The third-party – known as a mediator – is there to facilitate negotiations without taking sides. Mediation is not like trial – these proceedings do not take place in a courtroom, and a judge is not present. Instead, mediation is an informal setting where both sides try to reach a compromise.

In some mediations, the mediator will sit down with all the parties at the same time. In others, they will meet with each group separately in an attempt to reach common ground with as little conflict as possible. These efforts can lead to agreement on issues that previously seemed impossible to resolve.

The mediator does not choose sides or determine a winner. If the two groups ultimately cannot agree, the case will likely continue to litigation where a judge will have the final say. When mediation is successful, it could greatly reduce the stress, worry, and financial costs that come with divorce and other family law disputes.

Litigation

There are times when litigation is unavoidable. Some family law disputes simply cannot be resolved amicably. When settlement negotiations or mediation fails, litigation is the final option.

Any family court dispute could ultimately go to trial. Contested divorce hearings are common, but these proceedings could also occur in everything from custody cases to paternity hearings. The right attorney can provide invaluable guidance during litigation in any case.

Talk to a St. Louis Attorney about Your Family Law Process Options

It is important to consider all your options when facing a family law dispute. Whether you are going through a divorce or are seeking a modification to a court order, you have different options in front of you. Let an experienced family law attorney help you evaluate all your St. Louis family law process options.