All FAQs

In divorce mediation, a couple, or in some cases, a couple and their respective lawyers, hire a neutral third-party, called the mediator, to meet with them in an effort to discuss and resolve their issues in the divorce.

Mediation is based on principles of negotiation, and problem-solving. The decision-making authority remains at all times with the parties and not the mediator.

The mediator’s job is to assist in identifying issues and explore alternatives. The mediator must conduct the mediation in an even-handed, balanced manner. The ultimate goal of the mediator is to help the couple reach their own resolution.

Mediation is not a substitute for the services of a qualified attorney. Both parties are encouraged to obtain independent counsel during the mediation process and to have their lawyer review the agreement before it is signed. Even when the mediator is an attorney, he or she cannot give either party legal advice.

No cases are too complicated to be settled using mediation. The parties in mediation may consult with outside experts such as accountants, appraisers, financial planners in attorneys during the process.

Although possible, it is not unusual that one or two issues remain unresolved after mediation. The time spent in mediation is not wasted. An agreement can be prepared for all the resolved issues and the parties can either litigate the remaining issues or can take further time to think about them and come back to mediation at a later date.