The Merits of Mediation for Separating Couples
The process of separation is never easy. If you are separating in Toronto, you might find that your entire life is turned upside down – and that one of your most important relationships is suddenly gone. Fortunately, you can benefit from the process of mediation – a process that can help you to communicate and to work with your former partner towards a better future.
Making an Effort
Separation is a unique state in which individuals are no longer married, but are still legally bound to one another. A separation can lead as easily to divorce as it can to reconciliation. For many, taking the time to repair a relationship is as much a matter of effort as it is a matter of desire. Those who choose to attend mediation generally do so as method of showing good will towards the possibility of reconciliation (or at least amicable separation). This effort, in turn, can allow both parties a chance to air their grievances and begin the process of creating a civil relationship with one another.
Neutral Ground
Mediation also provides a neutral ground on which the two parties can meet. Working with your partner (or soon-to-be-ex) can be difficult if one of the two of you constantly feels like you are not able to get a word in. Mediation allows for a neutral third party to create a safe place in which the two other parties can communicate without fear of reprisal. While the words said in mediation can certainly hurt and problems can arise, this kind of free space can also allow individuals the safety to finally express their feelings and to work on the problems that have occurred during the relationship.
Working on the Future
More than anything, though, mediation helps to set the stage for your future. Whether the process mends a rift in the marriage or not, it helps couples to develop the skills necessary to communicate through the remainder of the process. Separation may be seen a step towards divorce or a step towards reconciliation, but the truth is that couples must continue to work out issues no matter how they choose to go forward with the relationship.
It is important to remember that mediation signifies neither that a couple will reconcile nor that they will get divorced. It does, however, signify a willingness to communicate and an acknowledgement that outside help might be needed. Whether you need help expressing yourself in a safe space or you need time to acknowledge the new reality of your life, it is always wise to look into mediation for separating couples. No matter where your life takes you next, it is wise to make your peace with what has come before.
Take the step towards your new life, FIne & Associates has the most experienced Toronto Divorce Lawyers and Family Lawyers for you.