For many people, the process of divorce can seem overwhelming. This is usually because most people associate divorce with drawn-out, expensive litigation. Fortunately, however, there are alternative dispute resolution options available that make it possible to settle a divorce while avoiding the extra cost, stress and time commitment required for court proceedings. For many divorcing couples living in the U.S. Virgin Islands, mediation is a preferred form of alternative dispute resolution that can be used to amicably settle a divorce.

Mediation refers to the process of settling disputes or family law matters outside of the courtroom. During this process, the divorcing parties work with a neutral, third-party mediator to settle issues related to alimony, child custody, child support, visitation and the division of assets on their own terms. This process is generally ongoing, as it can take some time for both spouses to agree on all points of discussion. Once all issues have been agreed upon, the mediator issues a divorce decree, to be approved by the court.

Alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation may be preferable for many different reasons. It allows the divorcing parties the ability to settle their divorce privately and in the spirit of cooperative problem solving, rather than through difficult, adversarial battling. Mediation also allows spouses to discuss issues that may not be addressed through the traditional litigation process, often leading to results that would be much more difficult to reach otherwise.

The process also offers an increased level of flexibility and significant cost savings. In addition, it’s common for divorcing parties who choose alternative dispute resolution to report that the process leads to a more emotionally satisfying resolution, and one that preserves key relationships with children, family and friends.

If you live in the U.S. Virgin Islands and are considering using alternative dispute resolution to work through your divorce, a skilled family law attorney can help with various aspects of the process. If you choose to use a mediator, your lawyer will likely have experience working with several in the area and will be able to help you choose a professional who will do an excellent job. An attorney will also be able to prepare you for the mediation process, help you evaluate the proposed settlement options and allow you to put the end agreement in writing to avoid any future complications.

BoltNagi is a well-established and widely respected family law firm serving individuals and families throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands.