Thinking of Divorce? Here are The Top 3 Methods

Divorce is one of the most difficult decisions a person can make. If you’re at this crossroads, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and searching for answers. The good news is—you do have options. Understanding these choices can help you move forward with confidence and clarity. Here are the three main ways to get divorced and what you should consider for each.

1. Self-Filing: Handling It Yourself
If you and your spouse are in full agreement on all aspects of your divorce—such as asset division, child custody, and financial arrangements—you may be able to file for divorce yourself. This is often called an uncontested divorce and can be a cost-effective way to move on quickly.

Pros of Self-Filing:
✔ Low-cost option, as you avoid legal fees
✔ Faster process compared to litigation
✔ Full control over decisions without court intervention

Cons of Self-Filing:
✘ Can be confusing if you're unfamiliar with legal paperwork
✘ Mistakes in filing may cause delays or legal complications
✘ No professional guidance to ensure fairness and compliance

While this may work for amicable separations, it’s important to ensure all agreements are legally sound. If you have children, shared assets, or potential disputes, you might want to explore other options.

 
2. Hiring a Lawyer: The Traditional Approach
Many people assume that hiring a divorce lawyer is their only option. While legal representation is beneficial in complex, high-conflict divorces, it’s not always the best path for everyone.

Pros of Hiring a Lawyer:
✔ Legal expertise to navigate complex cases
✔ Representation in court if needed
✔ Can help if one party is uncooperative, dishonest, or abusive

Cons of Hiring a Lawyer:
✘ Extremely costly—legal fees can quickly add up
✘ Lengthy process, often taking months or even years
✘ Court battles can be emotionally draining, especially for children
✘ Less control over the outcome, as decisions may be left to a judge

While attorneys play a valuable role in high-conflict cases, many couples find that the adversarial nature of litigation creates more stress than solutions.

 
3. Choosing Mediation: A Balanced, Stress-Free Approach
For couples who want to part ways amicably but need guidance, mediation is the ideal solution. With mediation, a neutral third-party mediator helps you and your spouse reach agreements without the need for court battles.

Why Mediation Works Best:
✔ Cost-Effective – Mediation is up to 90% cheaper than litigation
✔ Faster Resolution – Most cases are resolved in weeks, not years
✔ Less Stress – Encourages cooperation instead of conflict
✔ Child-Focused – Creates a peaceful co-parenting plan
✔ Confidential & Private – Keeps your personal matters out of the courtroom
✔ More Control – You and your spouse make decisions, not a judge

Mediation allows couples to work together to find fair solutions, reducing the emotional and financial toll of divorce.

 
Which Option Is Right for You?
If you and your spouse agree on everything and feel comfortable handling paperwork, self-filing may be an option. If your divorce is very high-conflict and has had a background involving domestic violence, child abuse, or involves intense legal complexities--hiring a lawyer may be necessary.

However, if you want a peaceful, fair, and cost-effective divorce (even admist high-conflict situations), mediation is the best choice.

At Bright Path Mediation, we specialize in helping families navigate divorce with dignity and clarity. Our expert mediators guide you through the process, ensuring that both parties feel heard and that children’s needs are prioritized.

 
Take the Next Step Toward a Peaceful Divorce
You don’t have to go through this alone. Let us help you move forward in a way that’s less stressful, more affordable, and centered on your family’s future.

Choosing the right path makes all the difference. Let’s create a brighter future together.