There are many strong reasons to use mediation. One, it is client focused and tends to work better because YOU created this agreement. This wasn’t put on you by a judge or your ex’s attorney. It’s also very child focused in its decisions. It can be less expensive, but only if everyone is working toward the same end. And, lastly you can involve other professionals can be brought in, like a co-parenting therapist.

Mediation is a non-adversarial way of getting divorced. You are creating your own separation agreement without court intervention. You do not have to get along with your spouse to do this, but it’s better if you’re both on the same page in terms of timing, kids’ interests and finances.

How does it work? You are going to cover a parent plan, asset division, child support, and more. The mediator will walk you through those issues over time and help you both communicate through a productive conversation and come up with options. Maybe you want to keep the house and the other partner wants to sell; the mediator will go through the options and help you find something that addresses both of your needs.

A mediator should give you a list of all the financial documents that you will need; it’s like “discovery” in litigation.

The mediator facilitates options and communication, but does not represent a side. There is no individual legal advice. So, you can hire review counsel at any time to make sure your interests are being represented. That counsel can review the final document or just be on call as needed. It’s far more economical than litigation.

What if it doesn’t work? Both parties give the mediator authorization to share their information with their individual attorneys.