QUESTIONS ABOUT
MEDIATION
Do we need to file divorce papers before
beginning mediation?
No, the papers can be prepared after you start
mediation. If you prefer, we can assist you in the preparation and
filing of the court documents.
If my spouse or I have already started
a court action, is it too late to mediate our case?
No. You can agree to mediate your divorce at any
time before the final orders are entered by the court.
How long does mediation take?
To a great extent, you are in control of how long
mediation takes. Sessions can be scheduled as often or as infrequently
as you wish. The number of sessions needed to reach an agreement
depends on the complexity of the issues and upon your ability to
work cooperatively toward a solution. For example, on the average,
couples without children typically need only three or four sessions,
each two hours long, to resolve their issues. Couples with children
typically resolve their case with three to eight sessions. Post
judgment conflicts generally require only one or two sessions, depending
on the number and complexity of the issues. Couples who experience
high levels of conflict may require additional sessions.
How do we resolve more complex issues?
Our mediation team is experienced in resolving
complex and emotionally charged issues. Kathy has over 22 years
experience as an attorney in family law and Mark has over 25 years
experience treating couples, individual adults and children. Together,
they provide the couple with a unique combination of skills to help
them address complex and emotionally charged issues.
What are the risks of mediation?
The risk in trying mediation is limited
to the cost and time of your initial session. Choosing an experienced
family mediator is the best way to minimize the risks of an unsuccessful
mediation. For a minority of couples who are unable to resolve their
conflict in mediation, you still have the option to resort to a
litigated divorce after terminating mediation.
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