As the tough economic conditions persist in California and elsewhere, it is important to find ways to ease the cost of divorce, both emotionally and financially. One way to do this, as a recent article in the Huffington Post suggests, is by taking advantage of mediation.

The article said that mediation has always been a cost-effective and dignified way to divorce, but in today's economy, it makes even more sense. In fact, how you handle your divorce can make or break your finances for years to come, the article pointed out.

During mediation, a third-party neutral facilitates the discussions and negotiations between you and your spouse with the goal of reaching a settlement that you both can benefit from and agree to.

A skilled mediator is able to help you get through impasses and not let negative emotions fuel the negotiations. In mediation, each spouse has an opportunity to be heard. A final solution is then able to fit the needs of your particular case.

Another perk of mediation is that because you both have a role in forming the agreement, it is more likely that the agreement will be sustainable. It also can create a positive foundation to work from with your ex, which can be very important for co-parenting.

As you may have suspected, mediation can also be friendlier on children. It allows the parties to create a child custody, child support and a parenting plan that best suits the family. There also tends to be less bitterness and anger that is picked up on by children

Litigation is necessary in some cases where an impasse cannot be broken. In these cases, a judge is given the job of deciding what's best for you in your family. Of course, whenever possible, you want to be the one making these important decisions.

Source: The Huffington Post, "In Today's Uncertain Financial Times, Mediated Divorce Makes More Sense Than Ever," Bari Zell Weinberger, Esq., Nov. 29, 2011.