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The Different Ways To Settle Divorce

Divorce is not, unfortunately, simply a matter of spouses deciding to part ways. Rather, it is a complex legal undertaking wherein a rigid set of laws must be followed, which means disputes are highly likely to arise. The decision to divorce is difficult in itself; many are surprised — and disheartened — to find that the process of divorcing is more difficult still.

The lawyers at Richard C. Bardi & Associates LLC can help simplify proceedings. We understand what’s at stake: your relationships with your children, your financial independence and your future. At every turn, our attorneys will assert your interests.

Litigation And Its Alternatives

Many fear entering divorce proceedings because of the stigma associated with drawn-out courtroom battles that are both expensive and emotionally trying; however, there are a number of ways to finalize a divorce without going to trial. Our legal team will help you understand your options and choose the best path toward resolution.

Conciliation

Conciliation is a means of avoiding court. In Massachusetts, it is frequently used by couples who have already begun divorce proceedings and seem headed toward trial. It involves a referral by the court to a third-party attorney who takes an active role in helping spouses devise a fair and mutually beneficial settlement.

Mediation

Mediation has lately become one of the most common means of settling a divorce. It entails that both spouses (and, when applicable, both spouses and their lawyers) work with a neutral third party — the mediator — to reach an accord.

Many couples find that mediation carries a multitude of benefits. It can be less expensive than courtroom litigation. It is, in most scenarios, less stressful and time-consuming. And, perhaps most importantly, spouses get to make decisions for themselves, rather than giving this power to a judge.

Arbitration/Masters

Arbitration is a process similar to mediation, wherein spouses engage a neutral third party to help them resolve their divorce. The major difference is that, in arbitration, the outside party is commonly a retired judge and has more authority over the proceedings. Indeed, spouses agree to grant their arbitrator decision-making authority and to abide by his or her rulings.

The disadvantage of arbitration is that the arbitrator’s decisions are typically binding, and there is little recourse to change them even if either spouse is unhappy with a particular ruling. Nevertheless, it is faster and more cost-effective than traditional divorce proceedings, and it also offers more privacy to the individuals involved.

Litigation

At Richard C. Bardi & Associates LLC, we are adept at carrying out all available means of settling divorce. Whenever possible, we advise clients to work with their spouses. However, if this is not feasible, our lawyers have decades of courtroom experience and are unafraid to assert our clients’ rights and interests in court. With a proven trial record, we know how to work with opposing counsel and family court judges to obtain favorable outcomes concerning child custody, child support, asset division, spousal support and all related matters.

Our aim, in every case, is to achieve the best possible results for our clients.

Call Us To Learn More

If you’re entering divorce proceedings and would like to explore your options, reach out to our legal team today. You can call us at 617-749-9979 or contact us online. Based in Boston, we serve throughout Massachusetts.