Settling Out of Court vs Going to Court for a Divorce: Which is the Best Option for You?

 

Divorce is a tough and emotional process that is not only emotionally draining but can also be financially and legally complex. When contemplating divorce, the question of whether to settle out of court or go to court can be daunting. This blog post aims to explore the differences between settling out of court and going to court for a divorce. We will dive into some of the factors to keep in mind when making that decision to help you determine which option is best for you.

 

1. Settlement Out of Court 

Settling out of court allows the couple to come to a resolution outside of the courtroom. This type of divorce could save you time and money compared to a contested divorce. The negotiation process can be carried out through a mediator, who will help facilitate communication and agreement between the parties. Another option is to go through the collaborative law process. This process is done outside of the court system, with each spouse having their lawyers present. The collaborative approach to divorce requires transparency and openness, allowing both parties to work together to come to an agreement. This approach is helpful for couples willing to cooperate, maintain a relationship post-divorce, and take responsibility for their success. 

2. Going to Court

When couples are unable to settle divorce in private negotiations, the parties may resort to pursuing their case through the court system. If a trial is necessary, a judge will hear both sides and make a final decision. This is an option for those who are unable to reach a settlement agreement due to conflicting views on child custody, alimony, or property division issues. In this case, a family lawyer will be your best bet in bruising disagreements during the court proceeding. Going to court can be costly, time-consuming, and often leads to unexpected outcomes.

3. Costs Involved

Typically, settling out of court is more affordable compared to going to court. When the parties come to an agreement and take it through mediation, the process takes little time and can be concluded relatively quickly. This is because it doesn't require a judge's approval and doesn't take as long as a trial would. On the other hand, going to court can be quite expensive, and the outcome is uncertain. 

4. Impact on Children

A settlement out of court may be best if you have children. This is because it is less adversarial and allows both parents the opportunity to work together to come to an agreement. Co-parenting is often easier if both parents are willing to cooperate. If you decide to go to court, you have to accept that the ultimate decision will be made by the judge. While the advantages of this option may be limited, one of the ways it benefits your children who are oftentimes directly impacted by divorce is that it streamlines the divorce procedure, therefore allowing a speedy resolution. 

5. Emotional Toll

Divorce can be a trying and emotionally draining process. Going to court can be particularly difficult, as it usually involves intense scrutiny and a judge making decisions about your life. Going through mediation or collaborative law outside of court often leads to a more amicable and less contentious route. This is due to the fact that you and your partner have more control over the outcome and are less likely to have a judge impose a decision that impacts your life for years to come.

 

Conclusion

While there are pros and cons to each route, the choice between settling out of court and going to court ultimately depends on your unique circumstances. While a settlement out of court is beneficial for couples who can mutually work together towards an agreement, if there is a dispute that calls for legal intervention, going to court may be your only option. A skilled divorce lawyer with experience navigating through the complexities of family law can help you understand the pros and cons of each option. For more information, contact Ilvento Law, a family law practice in Orlando, FL, for expert guidance through the daunting process of divorce.