Divorce is known for its difficulty however it does not have to be destructive. While traditional courtroom battles may come to mind from the movies and our friends’ stories, more Arizona couples are being progressive and utilizing the power of mediation to resolve their differences with dignity and stay out of court completely. At McMurdie Law & Mediation, we believe that adopting a mediation mindset—one focused on collaboration, mutual respect, and creative problem-solving—leads to better outcomes for families both during and after divorce.
What Is the Mediation Mindset?
The mediation mindset is a shift in approach. It moves the focus away from “win-lose” to quality of resolution. It’s a commitment to making decisions from a place of calm and clarity rather than intimidation, anger or fear. In mediation, both parties work with a neutral third party who is an experienced mediator in family law, to reach mutual agreements on key divorce issues such as parenting time, legal decision-making (custody), division of assets, and support.
Unlike litigation, which often amplifies conflict, mediation fosters productive dialogue and long-term stability. It doesn’t mean skating around thorny or difficult issues. It does mean to approach them differently and with proper mental, factual and emotional preparation.
How Choosing Peace (Mediation) Improves the Process
- You Keep Control Over the Outcome
When you go to court, a judge makes decisions for you. Mediation empowers both spouses to shape their own agreements based on what works best for their family. That control leads to more personalized and sustainable solutions. - You Protect Your Children from Conflict
Children are often the unintended casualties of high-conflict divorces. Mediation minimizes tension by promoting cooperative communication and helping parents focus on their children’s needs. Parenting plans created in mediation are often more practical and better respected by both parties. - You Save Time and Money
Court battles can drag on for months—or even years—and the legal fees add up quickly. Mediation is typically much faster and more cost-effective, allowing you to resolve matters in a fraction of the time and at a lower financial and emotional cost. - You Set the Tone for the Future
Especially when children are involved, your relationship with your former spouse continues long after the divorce and even after the children are grown. Mediation lays the groundwork for a respectful co-parenting relationship and reduces the likelihood of future disputes.
Common Misconceptions About Mediation
Some people hesitate to try mediation because they believe it only works if both parties already agree or that it’s too soft for serious issues. That’s not the case.
- You don’t have to be best friends. Mediation works even when there’s tension, as long as both parties are willing to participate, self-educate and come prepared to brainstorm and find amicable solutions.
- It’s not therapy. While it may feel healing to find common ground, mediation is a legal process that leads to concrete written and signed agreements.
- You can still have attorney support. Many people consult with lawyers before during and after mediation sessions to ensure their agreements are sound and legal, and also to review their written agreements.
At McMurdie Law & Mediation, we offer private mediation sessions tailored to your needs—whether you’re coming in together or working toward settlement with guidance.
Real Peace Is a Strategic Choice
Choosing peace doesn’t mean avoiding the hard work. It means committing to a process that values your long-term goals more than short-term victories. Mediation allows space for clear communication, fairness, and respect, while preserving your financial and emotional resources.
Cristi McMurdie brings more than three decades of experience in Arizona family law to the mediation table. As both an experienced attorney and seasoned mediator, she understands what agreements will hold up in court and what families need to move forward.
Ready to Choose Peace?
If you’re considering divorce or working through a family dispute, ask yourself: Do I want to spend months in court, or do I want a faster, more respectful solution?
At McMurdie Law & Mediation, we help individuals, couples, and co-parents resolve your important family matters without the emotional and financial strain of litigation. With the right mindset and good professional support, you can move from conflict to resolution—with clarity and compassion.
Contact McMurdie Law today to schedule your private mediation session and take the first step toward a peaceful path forward.