What is Divorce Mediation?

Divorce mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process that allows you and your spouse to resolve divorce-related issues without going to court. It is often a more cost-effective option than litigation and may help keep the stress low for you and your children.

There are several types of mediation solutions, including facilitative, evaluative and shuttle mediation. Each type works differently and is recommended for couples who can communicate openly, cooperate and compromise.

Identifying Issues and Interests

When it comes to divorce mediation, the first step is identifying your issues and interests. This includes defining your goals, concerns, priorities and values.

As you frame your needs and interests, be sure to keep in mind that the key to successfully negotiating a settlement is problem-solving. By trading off acceptable options, you will be able to find settlement solutions that address each spouse’s most important interests as fully as possible.

Your mediator will also give you legal information about the law governing your case, including laws that determine how a judge would divide marital assets and debts, how child custody and support can be ordered, and when maintenance / spousal support can be granted.

In most cases, the parties will have overlapping interests in these areas. The mediator will help each party identify these interests, so they can focus their negotiation efforts on achieving a satisfactory compromise.

Getting Started

Divorce mediation is a process that provides an alternative to the formal process of litigation in divorce court. It enables couples to negotiate and come to an agreement on the issues involved in a divorce, such as child custody and spousal support.

You can get started with mediation by contacting a divorce mediator in your area and making an appointment to meet. The mediator will ask you to fill out an intake form that includes information about your assets, liabilities, and other financial matters.

Once you’ve completed the intake, the mediator will set a specific agenda for your first session. The agenda will include things such as dividing marital property, determining alimony, and child support.

Mediation sessions are typically two hours long, but they can last longer if there are complex issues to resolve. Scheduling enough time between sessions can also help both parties have adequate time to reflect on the issue and propose solutions.

Negotiating

Divorce mediation allows you and your spouse to resolve your divorce issues in a way that is tailored to your specific situation and future needs. It is confidential and a preferred alternative to litigating your case in court.

Mediation is a process in which you and your spouse meet with a neutral third party to work out solutions for the divorce. It acts as an alternative to litigation and can help to alleviate some of the stress and expense that often comes with a long and contested divorce.

It can take several sessions to reach a settlement agreement during mediation. How long the process takes depends on a number of factors including the underlying level of trust and animosity between the parties, how much communication occurs, and how many of the key divorce issues are addressed.

Finalizing the Agreement

Mediation is a non-adversarial way for divorcing couples to come to a settlement on issues, such as property division, child custody and support. It can be less expensive and time-consuming than litigation, and it often results in a more stable long-term result.

After the mediation process is completed, you and your spouse will meet with an attorney to draft a final agreement that covers all of the key issues in your divorce case. This document will be forwarded to a judge for approval, and it will then become part of your final divorce decree.

While it is possible to complete this entire process without a lawyer, you should consult with one if you have complex issues. They can advise you on negotiation techniques, explain legal concepts, and review the resulting settlement agreement to ensure that it is valid and protects your rights.