What are the alternatives to going to court for a divorce?

When a married couple in West Virginia decides to get a divorce, most people assume they automatically go to court. While this can be the case, there are alternative options available for those wishing to end their marriage. One of the more popular alternatives is mediation. Mediation is a voluntary process in which a trained and impartial third-party works with both parties to resolve issues such as property division, custody, and spousal maintenance (alimony). The mediator is not a judge and does not make decisions for the couple; instead, they help the couple communicate and work on a mutually beneficial resolution that works for both of them. Another alternative is collaborative divorce. In this method, each spouse retains their own attorney and the two parties negotiate the terms of the divorce without going to court. This is usually done through a series of in-person and/or virtual meetings with both attorneys present. Finally, couples can utilize the do-it-yourself method of divorce. With this option, couples can use online resources, such as court websites, legal self-help books, and online forms to navigate the divorce process without the assistance of an attorney. This method is only recommended for couples that are able to come to agreement on all issues and have minimal assets and/or children. No matter which alternative method a couple decide to use, it is important to remember that a divorce is a significant and legally binding decision. It is always wise to seek professional guidance to ensure the divorce is properly handled.

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