Couples nationwide, including in New York, can learn a lot from celebrities and their divorces. When the tabloids are full of reports of bitter divorce litigation, along with the personal details of celebrities, most people recognize that is not the way they want their divorces. On the other hand, tabloids are publishing more and more positive stories of celebrities who choose to use divorce mediation to navigate their divorces.
But why is mediation a better option in some cases? Mediation is a process based on communication and compromise that is facilitated by a neutral professional mediator. Both spouses are present during all negotiation sessions, and each spouse may bring along his or her attorney to provide valuable input and ensure all agreements meet legal requirements. It is a manner of solving conflicts in a quick and positive way.
Mediation is also a way of avoiding negative publicity that can be turned into scandals by the celebrity press. While these publications thrive on divulging the secrets and indiscretions of celebrities, the tasteless way in which the media typically handles such information can be detrimental to the image and popularity of a famous person. Litigated divorces require spouses to disclose family and personal information in court. In contrast, mediation is completely confidential and gives celebrities power over the information that is released for publication.
Mediation also protects children from the traumatic court proceedings. All the details related to the divorce settlement, child custody and parenting plans will remain private. New York couples who are considering divorce and are able to continue communicating may find their respective attorneys can provide guidance and support throughout mediation proceedings and during the final visit to family court to have the mutually agreed-upon settlement authorized.
Source: afairway.com, “Why Celebrities Turn to Mediation“, Accessed on Oct. 29, 2015
