The divorce process through the court is very slow and the outcome can be very unpredictable. A fully contested divorce case can also end up costing both party’s tens of thousands of dollars in attorney fees. All of this can be avoided if the parties actively mediate some, or all the issues, of their divorce. Mediation is a confidential process where the two parties meet with a neutral third party and work together to resolve their divorce. The mediator guides the process and makes sure that both parties have a voice and are heard. The mediator can give legal information to the parties, but the mediator does not give legal advice to either party. With over 25 years of experience as a divorce attorney, Chris has extensive knowledge about crafting parenting plans, custody arrangements, alimony/spousal support, child support, and dividing all assets.

The mediation process usually begins with the parties completing a questionnaire, so the mediator has an idea of what the issues are from each party’s perspective. The parties will sometimes meet all together if everyone feels safe and comfortable doing so. If emotions are high, it is often more productive and efficient for the mediator to meet with the parties individually. Mediation is a voluntary process so either party, or the mediator, can stop the process at any time.

Mediation is very often successful for the parties. The parties can address and resolve whatever is important to them. It helps the parties communicate and usually moves the parties towards real change and future problem solving. The mediation process takes listening and compromise, but in the end the parties can be proud of the fact that they resolved their divorce on their own without a public trial. The agreement likely won’t be exactly what either party wanted, but it is almost always a reasonable resolution that both parties can live with, and they can move on with their lives.