If you’re going through a divorce in Charleston, SC, one of the first questions you may ask is: “Should I hire a divorce mediator or an attorney?” While both can play an important role in resolving disputes, their jobs are very different. Understanding the role of a mediator—and how it compares to an attorney—can help you decide what works best for your family.
At Charleston Divorce Mediators, LLC, we specialize in helping couples in Charleston and throughout South Carolina navigate divorce in a respectful, cost-effective way.
What Does a Divorce Mediator Do?
A divorce mediator is a neutral professional who helps both spouses communicate, negotiate, and create solutions together. Unlike a judge or attorney, a mediator does not make decisions or take sides. Instead, the mediator’s role is to:
- Guide conversations so both people feel heard.
- Encourage problem-solving around finances, custody, and property.
- Stay neutral without favoring one spouse over the other.
- Help create a fair agreement that works for both parties.
- Reduce conflict to protect children and preserve relationships when possible.
Mediation is private, faster, and usually far less expensive than taking your divorce through the courts.
What Does a Divorce Attorney Do?
An attorney represents one person in a divorce. Their job is to advocate for their client’s legal rights and best interests. Attorneys often:
- Provide legal advice about your rights under South Carolina divorce law.
- Negotiate settlements on your behalf.
- Represent you in court hearings or trials if needed.
- Focus solely on achieving the best outcome for one side.
Attorneys are not neutral—they are trained to advocate for their client, even if it leads to more conflict.
Mediator vs. Attorney: Key Differences
| Divorce Mediator | Divorce Attorney |
|---|---|
| Neutral guide for both spouses | Represents only one spouse |
| Helps with communication & compromise | Provides legal advice & advocacy |
| Works toward win-win solutions | Focuses on client’s best interests |
| Usually less expensive | Can be costly, especially with litigation |
| Keeps control with the couple | Court may decide final outcome |
Why Choose Divorce Mediation in Charleston?
For many couples, mediation is a better first step. Here’s why:
- Cost Savings: Divorce mediation is typically a fraction of the cost of hiring two attorneys.
- Control Over the Outcome: You and your spouse—not a judge—decide what works best for your family.
- Faster Resolutions: Mediation can take weeks instead of months or years in court.
- Less Stressful: A respectful, private setting makes it easier to move forward.
- Better for Children: Reducing conflict protects kids from the stress of drawn-out legal battles.
Some couples also choose to use both—working with a mediator to create agreements and consulting with an attorney for legal advice along the way.
Serving Charleston and Beyond
At Charleston Divorce Mediators, LLC, we proudly serve families in:
- Charleston
- Mount Pleasant
- North Charleston
- Summerville
- and surrounding South Carolina communities
We’re here to make the divorce process more affordable, peaceful, and family-focused.
The biggest difference between a mediator and an attorney comes down to neutrality. While attorneys advocate for one person, mediators help both spouses work together.
If you’re looking for a way to resolve your divorce in Charleston that saves money, reduces conflict, and gives you more control, mediation may be the right choice.
✨ Ready to explore your options? Contact Charleston Divorce Mediators, LLC today to schedule a consultation and see how divorce mediation in Charleston, SC can help you move forward.
About Catherine Marra
Catherine Marra is a nationally certified Divorce Mediator with over 30 years of experience in Family Law, including 20 years in private practice and 10 years as a Family Court Magistrate. She uses her knowledge and experience to guide couples in negotiating divorce settlements so they can save money, complete the divorce process quicker, and get better outcomes than they would at trial.