Divorce Mediation FAQ
What is divorce mediaton?
Divorce mediaiton is a process of addressing and resolving all legal issues relating to a divorce or separation with the assistance of an impartial New York divorce mediator.
Will I be divorced upon completion of divorce mediation?
Our all-inclusive mediation services include the preparation of the Marital Separation and Property Settlement Agreement. Once this document is signed by both you and your spouse it is a legally binding agreement that results in a legal separation. The filing of this agreement and some ancillary documents with the courts and the review and approval of the agreement and documents by the courts results in a divorce.
Why should I go to a divorce mediator instead of a divorce attorney?
Quite simply, the result is the same except that mediation is considerably less expensive and considerably less emotionally damaging on you, your spouse and your children. The result of both mediation and an adversarial proceeding is a legally binding separation agreement that governs the terms of your separation or divorce. There is a tendency for people to believe that they will get more if they act in an adversarial manner and attorneys typically exploit that belief. The truth is that acting adversarially is never beneficial as you and your spouse will lose control over all disputes and comprimises and will likely be forced to live with an agreement that fosters on-going tension and court intervention.
Will a divorce attorney provide me with more valuable information than a mediator?
Both attorneys and mediators provide valuable information. However, an attorney will use that information to begin a long drawn out adversarial process that gets taken out of the hands of the people that matter the most, both you and your spouse. Whereas, a mediator will use that information to help you and your spouse reach a fair agreement for the benefit of yourselves and your children.
How long does divorce mediation take?
The number of mediated sessions required for the successful resolution of all issues relating to your separation or divorce depends upon your particular facts and circumstances, but it can take as little as 1 week. The process of filing a divorce and getting it approved by the courts takes approximately 3 months.
How much does divorce mediation and legal separation cost?
A fully mediated divorce or separation agreement can cost as little as $1,000.
What is the cost of filing for a divorce?
Our flat rate fee to prepare all other divorce-related documents and file with the court is only $650.