When you and your spouse decide to end your marriage, no one needs to know your dirty laundry. Going through a divorce is difficult enough without worrying that sensitive information regarding your relationship will be aired out for everyone to see. As such, you may consider engaging in divorce mediation as this alternative dispute resolution method is a confidential process. Please continue reading to learn when divorce mediation is appropriate and why you should consider our Monmouth County Mediation services when resolving these matters.
When Can You Use Divorce Mediation in NJ?
Divorce mediation is often utilized by those seeking an efficient, yet fair, divorce process. During mediation, the two sides meet with an impartial third party who facilitates negotiations with the aim of helping you achieve a mutually beneficial agreement on the terms that will apply to the termination of the marriage. It’s important to note that the mediator does not and cannot represent either side.
Although couples can turn to mediation at any point in the process of ending a marriage, this alternative dispute resolution method is not right for every couple. Despite its benefits, it may not work when there’s a lot of conflict, as this process relies on both parties’ willingness to communicate and compromise.
Mediation may not be suitable if there is an imbalance of power. For instance, a spouse who has experienced domestic abuse may be too afraid to speak freely during mediation sessions. For mediation to be successful, both parties must feel that they can speak openly without the fear of retribution. If one spouse is afraid of the potential repercussions after speaking freely, mediation is not appropriate. Ultimately, mediation is effective when the parties are willing to work together to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement.
Is Everything We Discuss in Mediation Kept Confidential in NJ?
In New Jersey, discussions in front of a mediator are confidential, with very limited exceptions. This means that a mediator is not permitted to disclose anything you say during your sessions or share any documents you have provided. Unlike traditional litigation, which occurs in a public courtroom, this process is private, which means the information you divulge will not become a part of the public record.
When you litigate an issue before a judge, everything you reveal will become part of a public record. While court records are not broadcasted for everyone to see, public records are accessible to people who know how to access this information. Therefore, if you want to ensure your divorce is kept confidential, you should consider divorce mediation.
If you believe this is the right divorce route for your situation, please don’t hesitate to contact Paone Zaleski & Murphy for the competent mediation services you deserve and need. Connect with our firm today to learn more about how we can assist you.
