The office supply store Staples is well known for their “Easy Button.” A person presses the large red button and quickly gets what he/she wants.
Arizona Easy Divorce
Is there an Easy Button for divorces in AZ? There are admittedly very few easy divorces in Arizona because divorces are normally fraught with emotional pain. But there is an “easy” divorce process – mediation.
In mediation, the parties work cooperatively to reach agreements with the assistance of a mediator. The mediator drafts and files all of the paperwork and guides the parties through the process, making it as easy and worry-free as possible. By choosing mediation, parties avoid the stress of:
- Large attorneys’ and experts’ fees bills
- The uncertainty of how to properly complete and file documents with the Court
- The accusatory letters and pleadings that pervade contentious litigation
- Going to Court and testifying in a public forum
- The long waiting period for the completion of the divorce
- The uncertainty of outcomes after trial
With mediation, parties generally share the cost of one professional – the mediator. Parties are still free to use professionals in the mediation process, if they would like. The average mediated divorce takes under 90 days to complete (the law requires parties to wait 60 days after service to submit a consent Decree). Mediation participants do not even have to set foot in the Courthouse. Finally, mediation has the benefit of being confidential.
By ending their marriage in a cooperative and amicable fashion, mediation participants find that they are able to move forward in their lives in a much more positive manner.
Alona M. Gottfried is a family law mediator and attorney in Arizona. If you have questions about mediation, she can be reached at: 480-998-1500 or alona(at)sglawaz.com. This is a general interest article only and is not intended to be legal advice. See a legal professional before making legal decisions.
Simmons & Gottfried, PLLC
8160 E. Butherus Dr., Suite #7
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
