In a column published on 3/7 in the Daily Business Review, Family Law Attorney Rebecca Palmer discusses the benefits of mediation and collaborative divorce and reaching a fair settlement without litigation. March 3-9, designated as Divorce With Respect Week® in Florida, and it was founded by Florida State Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez to promote amicable solutions rather than heading to court.

“Traditional divorce proceedings, managed by the courts, can take years thanks to court backlogs, necessary filings, and scheduling. In contrast, mediation and collaborative processes often resolve the issue in a fraction of the time, reducing the emotional strain on both parties and their families,” writes Palmer. “Divorce litigation can be costly with attorney fees, court costs, and drawn-out proceedings, whereas mediation is often more economical.”

Palmer advises engaging a neutral third-party mediator, when possible, to negotiate post-divorce terms such as property division, child custody, and support arrangements. Palmer also suggests working with mental health professionals to address the stressors of divorce not only for the separating spouses but also for the children.

“Divorce With Respect Week® offers an important reminder that divorce shouldn’t be a battle,” she writes. “Through collaborative divorce and mediation, couples can reach fair resolutions without the stress, expense, and emotional damage of courtroom litigation.”

Read the story in full; click here (subscriber-based).