Divorce isn’t just a legal process – it’s an emotional journey. And when the road to resolution drags on for months or even years, it can take a serious toll on your well-being, your finances, and your family. If you’re hoping for a more efficient and private way to move forward, arbitration may be the path worth considering.
In Pennsylvania, more couples are turning to arbitration to resolve their divorce and family law matters outside of the courtroom. This process offers a legally binding resolution without the drawn-out timelines, legal expenses, or lack of privacy that often comes with traditional litigation. It's a structured yet flexible way to keep control over your future while reducing conflict along the way.
At the Blessing Law, we’ve helped many clients navigate family law arbitration with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re facing divorce, custody issues, or property division, we’re here to help you explore your options and choose the process that fits your needs best.
What Is Arbitration in Family Law?
Through arbitration, divorcing couples present their case to an impartial arbitrator who evaluates the evidence and renders a final, enforceable decision. The arbitrator is often a retired judge or an experienced family law attorney who understands the complexities of divorce, custody, and support issues.
Unlike mediation, where the mediator helps guide a discussion but does not issue rulings, an arbitrator acts much like a judge. Their decision is legally binding, meaning both parties must follow it, just as they would a court order.
In Pennsylvania, arbitration can be used to resolve a wide range of family law matters, including:
- Divorce
- Property and asset division
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
- Spousal support (alimony)
How Does the Arbitration Process Work?
While every case is unique, the arbitration process typically involves the following steps:
1. Choosing an Arbitrator
Both parties must agree on who will serve as the arbitrator. This person should be someone with deep experience in family law who has been trained as an arbitrator by the American Bar Association or equivalent training resource. . If you and your spouse can’t agree, a third party – such as your attorneys – can help you select someone neutral and qualified.
2. Preparing for the Hearing
Before the hearing, both sides gather important documents, prepare evidence, and submit any necessary financial information. If your case involves complex financial matters or parenting disputes, expert testimony may also be part of the process.
3. The Arbitration Hearing
The hearing is usually more relaxed than a formal court trial but still follows a structured format and attorneys must follow the Rules of Evidence. Each side has a chance to present their case, share evidence, and call witnesses if needed. The arbitrator may ask questions to better understand the issues before making a decision.
4. Receiving a Final Decision
After reviewing all the information, the arbitrator issues a written decision. This decision is binding and enforceable by law, meaning it carries the same legal weight as a court judgment. In fact, the award will become a court order subject to enforcement. Only the child support and child custody portions can later be subject to modification by the Court.
Why More Pennsylvania Couples Are Choosing Arbitration
Arbitration offers several important benefits that make it a smart alternative to traditional litigation:
Faster Results
Court schedules are often backed up, and divorce cases can take months – or even years – to resolve. Arbitration allows you to set your own timeline and move the process along at a pace that works for both sides.
Lower Costs
Because arbitration tends to move more quickly than a court case, it often results in lower attorney fees and fewer administrative costs. The more efficiently your case is resolved, the more you can save in both time and money.
More Privacy
Court proceedings are public, which means anyone can access details about your divorce. Arbitration, on the other hand, is confidential. The hearing and outcome are private, giving you and your family peace of mind.
More Control
With arbitration, you choose the arbitrator and have greater say over when and how the hearing takes place. This flexibility can help reduce conflict and create a more comfortable, collaborative environment.
Clear, Final Outcomes
Unlike mediation, where the outcome depends on mutual agreement, arbitration provides a definitive decision. This can offer clarity, closure, and a solid foundation for moving forward.
When Is Arbitration the Right Fit?
Arbitration isn’t ideal for every situation, but it can be especially useful if:
- You and your spouse want to avoid the adversarial nature of court.
- You need to resolve your divorce or custody issues quickly.
- You prefer to keep personal matters private.
- Your case involves complex property or financial issues.
- You want to choose the professional making decisions in your case.
In short, if you’re looking for a process that’s efficient, private, and tailored to your unique needs, arbitration could be the right path.
Why Choose Blessing Law for Family Law Arbitration?
At the Blessing Law, we understand that every family law matter is deeply personal. Our approach is grounded in compassion, experience, and a commitment to helping clients resolve disputes with dignity and clarity as well as choose the process best suited for their needs.
We offer arbitration services tailored to your specific situation – whether you're navigating divorce, child custody, support, or property division. With decades of experience in Pennsylvania family law, our team provides thoughtful guidance at every step, empowering you to make informed decisions and achieve lasting resolutions.
Whether you're located in Montgomery County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, or the greater Philadelphia area, we are here to support you with skilled and personalized representation. Additionally, Maribeth Blessing is also an Arbitrator trained by the American Bar Association.
Take the First Step Toward Resolution
If you're exploring alternatives to traditional divorce or family court, we invite you to learn more about how arbitration can help. At the Blessing Law, we’re ready to guide you through this process with confidence and care.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out how arbitration can provide a quicker, more peaceful path forward for you and your family.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every family law case is unique. To discuss your specific situation, please consult a qualified family law attorney at Blessing Law.