What to expect during the divorce mediation process

Divorce mediation is a non-adversarial process.

Talk about divorce and many people have predetermined ideas of what the process is and what to expect. You know there will be lawyers involved for each side, court appearances, preparing legal papers, the costs of two attorneys and going to court, and a lot of time and money spent on the process. Divorce court by its nature is confrontational.

Talk about divorce mediation and the expectations may not be as clear. We are frequently asked about what to expect during the mediation process as you and your spouse come to terms with dissolving your marriage. Today we will help those considering divorce mediation better understand what happens in divorce mediation and what to expect.

First, divorce mediation is a non-adversarial process. You and your spouse will discuss and negotiate how to fairly divide your marital assets and debts, financial and parenting issues regarding the children, if any, and the amount and duration of spousal support if appropriate in your circumstances.

This is accomplished with the guidance of a neutral mediator. The divorce mediator may or may not be a lawyer (we at New York Divorce Mediation Group are in fact licensed NYS attorneys) keeping your discussions on point, encouraging the spouses to express their feelings and interests openly, and working through to a mutually agreeable compromise that is fair and equitable to all parties involved, including children of the marriage. For more information, read our post on How Divorce Mediation Works to learn about the mediation process in 5 stages.

At New York  Divorce Mediation Group, we encourage our clients to state their needs, express their concerns and to be honest even when addressing those difficult questions.  Mediation sessions are confidential and are conducted in a safe environment. If you are considering divorce why not speak with one of our Long Island divorce mediators today and explore the benefits of divorce mediation.