Divorce mediation gives separating couples the opportunity to meet with an impartial third party representative to help them reach a divorce settlement. Run by a mediator or mediator attorney, it’s a multi-stage process that’s faster and less expensive than a litigated divorce, and allows divorcing couples to come to an agreement based on what they believe is fair (versus what a court would decide). Here is a brief overview of the process.

5 Stages of the Divorce Mediation Process

1. Introductory Stage

During this stage, the mediator attorney will lay out a basic agenda for the forthcoming process. She will review what’s in dispute and, based on input from you and your spouse, come up with a fair, mutually-agreed upon approach to discussing the issues so an agreement can be reached.

2. Information-Gathering Stage

Once all parties have agreed to the process, the mediator attorney will ask you and your spouse to provide information that’s relevant to the divorce, such as a financial worksheet. Based on this info, she will outline the state laws that apply to your case and may explain how a judge would likely divide your assets, decide on child custody, child support, and order alimony payments, if any.

3. Framing Stage

Next, the mediator attorney will help you and your spouse identify the needs and interests of each of you  This typically includes matters like property division, alimony, child custody, and child support.  This will help frame the main goals of the mediation so that all of the aspects significant to you and your spouse are considered.

4. Negotiating Stage

With each party’s needs and interests clearly laid out, the mediator or mediator attorney will then help you and your spouse negotiate an agreement that is acceptable to both of you. You’ll likely discuss and evaluate many different options, eventually narrowing them down through compromise. During this process, the mediator will make sure conversations stay on track and each party’s interests are fully addressed until an agreement can be reached.

5. Concluding Stage

Once a settlement agreement has been reached, the mediator attorney will draft a separation agreement that incorporates the essential points in writing. Both you and your spouse will have the opportunity to review the document and consult with your divorce lawyer. Once both parties sign off, the draft will be used to prepare a formal settlement to be filed with the court as part of the uncontested divorce.

If you’re going through a divorce, contact The Law Office and Mediation Center of Jeannine M. Talbot in Litchfield County, CT. With more than 20 years of experience as a mediator attorney, Attorney Jeannine will help you and your spouse reach a mutually beneficial settlement with as little stress as possible. Visit her website to learn more about her legal services, and call (860) 482-9004 to set up a consultation today.