Actor Patrick Dempsey, affectionately known to Grey’s Anatomy fans as McDreamy, is divorcing his wife Jillian Fink Dempsey after 15 years of marriage. The couple has three children and no prenuptial agreement, and his wife is seeking a property settlement, spousal support and attorney fees. Dempsey has made millions throughout his long career, so this has the potential to be a contentious divorce.
When questioned about the cause of the split, Dempsey dropped several hints that he has been having difficulty managing his acting career, hobbies, and personal life. Dempsey has spoken at length about Grey’s being a huge commitment, but that his other obligations to family and as a race car driver were becoming difficult to manage.
You may not be a race car driver, but unchecked stress at work while juggling other life responsibilities can sometimes lead to marital problems and divorce. If this has happened to you””you are not alone. Many couples have difficulty maintaining their work life, children’s needs and relationship at some point in their lives. When couples divorce, sometimes it is because they are heading down different paths in life, which may cause fundamental disagreements in how to carry on a marriage.
Can Mediation Reduce Conflict in Divorce?
By using a mediator as a neutral party to openly discuss issues between you and your soon-to-be-ex on issues surrounding alimony, child support and property division, you might be able to reduce conflict.
Many couples try mediation while a divorce case is pending in court. Each party can have their attorney present during mediation sessions to help negotiate their interests. If mediation does not result in a full settlement, this will reduce the remaining issues that need to be litigated in court.
Even if you are an average couple without millions of dollars and an addiction to race car driving, mediation can help you overcome disagreements you may have faced during marriage.
Divorce Matters ”“ Denver Divorce Attorneys