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Divorce mediation can reduce post-divorce conflict by helping the former couple reach an agreeable settlement. It can also minimize animosity between the two parties by working toward a common goal.

However, sometimes, not everything is settled even after receiving a valid judgment of divorce. In these unique cases, post-divorce mediation may help overcome differences or make necessary changes to any issue covered in their divorce decree.

While personal reasons for choosing post-divorce mediation can be many, there are four common reasons that we see the most in the mediation profession:

Reason 1: Child Support Modification

In Florida, child support orders can be modified when there is a “substantial change in circumstances” for one or both of the parents. A substantial change can mean a change in income, the loss of a job, or an increase in child-raising costs.

If this is your case, the best option is to decide on a new amount you both agree on through mediation. However, if you face challenges reaching an amount both parties agree on, your mediation can help with a recalculation.

Reason 2: Child Custody Modification

In addition to looking for a substantial change in circumstance, judges in Florida will also look for a substantial change to the children’s best interests. It’s quite realistic for your child’s needs to have changed since the agreement was first made, and it’s also reasonable for parents to change during that time, so changes to the parenting plan may be necessary.

A mediator can help you and your spouse come up with a new co-parenting schedule that is better suited for your family today and into the future. 

Reason 3: Alimony

The rules for modifying alimony payments are similar to that of child support modification. As long as you can prove a substantial change in your circumstances, you may have the ability to adjust the amount you owe or are owed each month. 

Reason 4: Amending the Marital Settlement

While particular provisions of your mediated divorce settlement can’t be changed, there are numerous that you can modify at any point down the line. If you and your former spouse have both decided that there should be an amendment, a mediator can help you reach a new, fair agreement and draft a new official document.

Post-Divorce Mediation in Tampa When You Need It

Ideally, one round of mediation is all you’ll need to settle your divorce amicably and once and for all. However, life throws curveballs, and when circumstances substantially change, there may be a need for changes to aspects of your divorce settlement, co-parenting arrangement, or alimony. 

If you’ve found yourself in one of these scenarios and you feel like post-divorce mediation might be the right solution for you and your family, reach out to the experts at Natalie Baird Mediations to get started.