How Does Divorce Mediation Work?

1. The steps of a typical mediation consist of a series of two-hour meetings at the mediator's office. The mediator helps you to identify the key issues and to set a course to resolve them in a safe, non-confrontational environment.
2. Next, the mediator guides you through financial issues, making sure that each of you has full information before making any decisions. Couples may consult with tax, real estate or appraisal experts as well as separate counsel in this stage.
3. After a couple has reached an agreement on the issues, a legal agreement is drafted detailing the parties' decisions. The agreement can be reviewed by an attorney for each party. The agreement is then submitted to the court for approval and becomes the basis of the final divorce judgment.
4. Mediation is voluntary—there is never pressure to settle. The mediation is finished only when you are completely comfortable with your agreement.
5. Mediation leaves participants with a greater sense of control, satisfaction and empowerment. Research shows that couples who mediated their divorce have greater commitment to follow-through, a greater sense of fairness and less chance of re-litigation.