Individuals facilitating the resolution of marital dissolution disputes may or may not possess legal credentials. The professional background of these neutrals can vary, encompassing attorneys, mental health professionals, or financial advisors. For example, a licensed therapist with specialized training in conflict resolution could serve in this capacity, just as an attorney specializing in family law could.
The value in utilizing a neutral party to assist divorcing couples lies in their ability to guide negotiations towards mutually acceptable settlements. This process can potentially reduce legal costs and emotional distress compared to adversarial litigation. Historically, the practice emerged as a response to the often contentious and expensive nature of traditional divorce proceedings.