Can spousal support be awarded in mediation or arbitration?

Yes, in Washington, spousal support may be awarded in mediation or arbitration. Mediation is when both parties agree to meet with a neutral third-party – the mediator – to help them come to an agreement about their spousal support. The mediator is not authorized to make decisions but rather facilitates the process. Arbitration is different from mediation. The arbitrator works to find a solution to the issue that both parties can accept. Unlike mediation, the arbitrator can make decisions that will be binding on both parties. This means that if the arbitrator awards spousal support, both parties must abide by that decision. Therefore, in Washington, it is possible for both parties in a divorce to agree to settle their spousal support issues during mediation or arbitration. Such a resolution can be beneficial to both parties, as it allows them to come to a mutually agreeable agreement without having to go through the time and expense of a traditional court hearing.

Related FAQs

Can spousal support be awarded to an ex-spouse who is cohabitating with a new partner?
Is spousal support awarded in all cases?
What happens when a paying spouse passes away?
Can spousal support be enforced through a court order?
How does spousal support change when the couple has children?
Is spousal support paid until the receiving spouse remarries?
How is spousal support enforced by law?
What is the difference between spousal support and alimony?
Does the court consider the paying spouse’s ability to pay when calculating spousal support?
How much of an impact do fault grounds have on spousal support decisions?

Can spousal support be awarded in mediation or arbitration?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts