Published
Articles. The Decision to Divorce: The First Of Many Decisions
continued...
Once
you and your spouse have reached an agreement in mediation, it
is reviewed by an attorney who practices in matrimonial law. Whether
you and your spouse decide to individually hire an attorney or
share a single attorney, it is important to ensure that your interests
are legally protected. Legal documents relative to your mediated
agreement need to be filed promptly and correctly. Using both
a mediator and an attorney can greatly reduce the time and expense
in this decision-making process, while legally protecting your
interests.
Utilize Resources
And Support Groups
Fear
is one of biggest obstacles to decision-making. Realizing that
you don't have to make decisions alone can help overcome this
obstacle. Local organizations such as Neutral Ground and Parachute
(585-723-3420) are excellent peer-support groups that will serve
as a cocoon as you sort through the maze of decisions and emotions.
There is also Assisting Children through Transition (A.C.T.) (585-428-1930),
which is a program for parents interested in effectively transitioning
their children during divorce.
Divorce
is one of the three most traumatic experiences in one's lifetime.
By collecting factual information, using professionals to guide
and assist you, and developing a support network, the mediation
process can assist in making decisions today that will be a blueprint
for your future.
Carolyn T. Bryson is founder of Accord Mediation Services located
at 1100 University Avenue in Rochester, NY. Accord provides an
array of professional mediation services and conflict management
training throughout the Finger Lakes Region. With locations in
Canandaigua and Rochester, they may be reached at 585-461-2654.
Facts
And Figures
According
to the National Center for Health Statistics and the Center for
Governmental Research…
Two percent
of all marriages will end in divorce EVERY year. That's about
1.1 million annually, and about 69,000 people in New York State.
First marriages that end in divorce last an average of 11 years.
Subsequent marriages that end in divorce last an average of 7
years.
The average age of women divorcing for the first time is 33, for
men it is 35.
Child support is paid more readily when parents either share custody
or both have visitation arrangements.
Two-thirds of all divorces are initiated by women.
50 percent of all divorces in New York State involve children
under age 18.
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