In general, the separating or divorcing spouses meet with the mediator in a number of sessions. Each session usually lasts just a couple hours in length.<\/p>\n

First Meeting<\/h3>\n

Within the first meeting, the mediator is trying to learn about the issues that need to be resolved. They will hear about the issues that require discussion. He or she will also determine when each item will be talked about.<\/p>\n

Additionally, the mediator is also going to determine what other information they need from the parties involved to properly mediate the case. This may include financial information, employment status, etc.<\/p>\n

Above all, the first meeting is going to set the foundation for future mediation sessions, so it’s important to bring up all topics in this meeting.<\/p>\n

Additional Meetings<\/h3>\n

In subsequent mediation sessions, discussions will happen revolving around compromise for each issue. The mediator is not on anyone’s side. Their job is to remain neutral and find a middle ground that each spouse agrees with. Depending on how many issues there are to discuss and how long it takes to come to resolution will determine the number of sessions required.<\/p>\n

Coming to Agreement<\/h3>\n

Once both parties agree on all of the issues discussed in divorce mediation, the mediator will then prepare an agreement. The spouses will then review the agreement, along with their attorneys. If approved by both sides, then the parties will enter into agreement on resolution to their case.<\/p>\n

Do you have to go to court after mediation?<\/h2>\n

Often the sole purpose of mediation is to come to agreement so that you do not need to go to court. When divorcing couples cannot come to agreement in divorce mediation, then they may need to go court to resolve their case.<\/p>\n

But it’s important to note that this will always make a case more costly. If possible, resolving a case through mediation is the recommended option to try first before fighting in court.<\/p>\n

How long does it take to mediate a case?<\/h2>\n

How long a mediation will take depends highly on how complex a case is. If there are many issues to resolve, then a divorce mediation may take longer.<\/p>\n

On average, mediation can take anywhere from a few days to a month across multiple sessions. But when there is much to resolve or the issues are complicated, it’s not uncommon for mediation to last several months in time.<\/p>\n

Can a mediator be used instead of an attorney to resolve my case?<\/h2>\n

While an experienced mediator can help bring resolution to issues in a divorce, they are not your legal counsel. For this reason, it is still recommended to work with an experienced divorce attorney to offer guidance along the way.<\/p>\n

Often mediators are lawyers themselves, but since they are a neutral party, they cannot give you legal advice. Your attorney can, however. In addition, a lawyer can review any and all agreement documents to ensure you’re getting the best possible outcome in your case.<\/p>\n

Mediation when you can’t stand your divorcing spouse<\/h2>\n

It’s all too real that sometimes you just can’t bear the thought of being in the same room as a former spouse. While working amicably with the guidance of a mediator generally leads faster resolution, it’s not uncommon for some people to find this challenging.<\/p>\n

However, mediators are trained to help people work things out peacefully, even when tensions run high. While difficult, when you can see that mediation will benefit your future, it does help make negotiations easier to work through.<\/p>\n