Divorce Mediation – When to Use an Amicable Divorce Mediator on Long Island
When should you use Divorce Mediation? Here are the pros and cons of this process. If you have any doubts, consult an attorney. Divorce mediation is not a substitute for attorney-assisted litigation. However, the mediation process is not without its risks. For example, your spouse could hide hidden assets or use the mediation process to avoid paying for the attorneys’ services. A mediator cannot protect you from abuse or urgent issues. Divorce mediation cannot ensure a fair outcome and can lead to more inefficiency.
First, your mediator will ask for information about your finances. They will need to know all of your assets and liabilities, including bank accounts, pensions, stock and time-shares. They will also need to know how much you each own individually. This information is often quite sensitive, as one spouse is more familiar with family assets than the other. It is critical to investigate your marital estate before deciding on a property settlement. Once you know your assets, a mediator will set an agenda for how they should be divided.
The mediator will need a consultation with you to determine your case and determine how much time the process will take. The first session is often a good opportunity to gauge how far you are apart and where you need help. If you and your spouse have reached an agreement, the divorce process can be finalized in a few months. However, if you are still not satisfied with the agreement, you may want to consider post-mediation.
As mentioned before, divorce mediation costs less than litigation and is often the most successful. It relies on both your ideas, and your lawyer will lead the way. This allows you to remain in control of the process, while focusing on the needs of your children. It is also much less stressful than litigation, and your children will benefit from it. Once you decide to use divorce mediation, you can feel confident that your divorce will be as pleasant and painless as possible.
If you’re considering divorce mediation, you should know that your mediator cannot provide legal advice, but he or she can help you understand your rights and responsibilities under New York law. The mediator will explain the laws surrounding spousal support, asset division, and court procedures. An expert mediator will make the process much easier for you. The mediator will also guide you in identifying and agreeing on a mutually acceptable settlement.
When you decide to use divorce mediation, the first meeting sets the basic foundation for the rest of the process. During this first meeting, the parties will discuss the issues surrounding their divorce, and their financial situation. You should bring financial statements and tax returns with you to the first meeting. If you have complicated financial issues, you may have to pay additional retainer fees. After the initial meeting, the mediator will explain the mediation process. You should also bring copies of all your documents, such as divorce court judgments and other documents.
As the divorce process progresses, the length of the sessions varies. A typical session may last three to four sessions. If there are many issues involving money, however, the mediation process can take up to six months. However, most couples can finish the process in as little as three to four sessions. This is important for you if you want to get the best deal for your family. If the divorce settlement is difficult to reach, mediation will help you achieve a more favorable outcome.
Depending on the type of mediation you choose, your spouse may consult an attorney before the session. This will ensure that the divorce mediation process is confidential. Your mediator will then prepare a document reflecting the agreement. Your divorce attorney will not be present during the sessions. Your spouse will not have access to legal counsel. However, if you do not want your spouse to consult with an attorney, you should consider Divorce Mediation as a last resort.
A divorce mediator helps divorcing parties come to an agreement that is acceptable to both of them. Divorce mediation can also be beneficial for settling issues involving child custody and spousal support. The mediator acts as a third party to the divorce proceedings and facilitates the negotiation process between the spouses. By actively participating in these negotiations, the mediator does not interfere in the decision-making process or act as a judge.
