During mediation, you and your spouse will meet with a third-party neutral called a mediator. Ordinarily, you will be in a different room than your spouse, with the mediator traveling between you and your spouse. Or, you can decide to be in the same room as your husband or wife, and have the mediator moderate the discussion. Because the mediator cannot give you legal advice, you should have an attorney present during mediation.

The role of the mediator is to facilitate productive conversations about issues that are affecting divorce, including property division, child custody, and spousal support. The mediator will not take sides and will not give legal advice to either party. If at any point you or your spouse feels that mediation is not working or it is not the right option, either of you have the right to stop.

The Benefits Of Alternative Dispute Resolution

There are numerous benefits to divorce mediation, as opposed to the traditional litigation approach, such as:

• Mediation saves time: Preparing for trial can be a lengthy process.

• Mediation saves money: Courtroom litigation is expensive.

• Mediation keeps the peace between parents: If you and your spouse have children, it is important to maintain the best possible relationship with each other.

• Mediation is less stressful: The uncertainty and time associated with a trial can contribute to an emotionally draining experience. Mediation can relieve this burden.

• Mediation keeps you in more control of your outcome: During a trial, the judge, not you, will make decisions about your future.

I have helped others resolve their divorce disputes peacefully through mediation. Is divorce mediation right for you? Contact my firm to find out.