While litigation offers one path toward resolving disputes in court, it often comes at an emotional and financial cost. Mediation is a non-adversarial process that offers an alternative to litigation. In North Carolina, mediation may be required in certain circumstances. The courts generally want to see that both parties have tried to work out their differences before a trial is set.
During a mediation session, a neutral third-party mediator facilitates discussions between both parties. The goal is to encourage compromise on the part of both parties. By placing the mediator at the center of the process, parties can benefit from lower emotions and less potential interpersonal conflict. Anything that is discussed in mediation is confidential. A productive mediation session can often lead to a finalized divorce.