Most married couples in New Mexico enter their marital union with the intention of remaining in it for the rest of their life. While this is ideal, this unfortunately does not happen. Complex issues could arise, pushing spouses away from each other. The end of a marriage can be a complicated and emotional process, making it difficult for the spouses and their children.

Much like any major life event, divorce can invoke the seven emotional stages. This includes shock, denial, anger and blaming, bargaining, depression, acceptance and rebuilding. And, because the beginning phases of this process are shock and denial, this can make it difficult to initiate and progress dissolution.

While a traditional divorce process, such as litigation, might be appropriate for some divorcing spouses, this might be counterproductive for others. In fact, a divorce alternative might help move the couple through these seven stages efficiently, helping them reach a workable and amicable divorce decree. Divorce mediation works with, and for, the divorcing couples, helping them understand what they need and how they can resolve divorce issues.

Although no two divorces are the same, the divorce mediation process is an effective mechanism to deal with the natural ups and downs of the divorce process. It is expected that that spouses will not always see eye-to-eye on certain issues. But, the divorce mediation process helps initiate the communication necessary to reach an effective resolution.

If one is considering divorce or recently initiated the divorce process, it is important to consider all the options and tools available. This might mean using divorce alternatives to meet the needs of the couple, while also protecting the rights and interests of each spouse.

Source: Huffington Post, “Beware Of The Calm Before The Stormy 7 Stages Of Divorce,” Dr. Jamie Williamson, Oct. 25, 2016