Our goal is to make divorce mediation as simple and peaceful as possible. We break it down into five clear steps and leave you in control. So, exactly how does divorce mediation work?
The 5-Step Process of Divorce Mediation
Once you contact us, we go through these five steps efficiently and calmly until we work out a mutually agreed arrangement that eventually becomes finalized as your official legal separation or divorce decree document.
The Five Steps are:
- Order our simple Pre-Mediation packet.
- Schedule your first mediation appointment.
- Prepare the first documents, called the Initial Court Filings, in a neutral way that is fair for both spouses.
- Conduct a mediation session, or sessions, to decide on the financial division and, if applicable, the parenting plan.
- Prepare your Consent Decree of divorce and associated paperwork. We can file your Decree with the court or you can choose to do that yourself.
A Client-Centered Approach
Our mediation approach is 100-percent client-centered. We believe the couple knows what is best for their unique situation. We assist divorcing couples as objective outsiders to keep the discussions calm, on track, and focused on their priorities.
What does a mediation session look like?
You can come into our offices or we can meet online or by phone. In a two-hour mediation session, we encourage peaceful, focused discussion about your priorities in dividing assets, liabilities, and if applicable, parenting responsibilities. Our knowledge is invaluable to divorcing couples because, in this busy, highly emotional time of life, how can people anticipate everything that could become an issue in the future? We address those concerns and resolve those issues before they become a problem. We sit down without lawyers and calmly create a collaborative divorce and co-parenting arrangement.
How long does mediation take in a divorce?
While a typical divorce through the courts takes an average of 12 to 18 months, divorce mediation can be completed in as little as 3 months. A typical divorce with Affordable Mediation will take one to three mediation sessions, spread out over a month or two. Each session is about two hours, just enough time to be productive but not overwhelming. Complex cases may take four to six months to complete. These time frames are dependent on collaborative and focused meetings. That is why our expertise is so helpful and can even help reduce costs, making your divorce mediation more affordable.
Final Steps
Divorce mediation is a process that typically yields a divorce decree or a separation agreement. (Although reconciliations occur, as well.) When that decree is filed and signed by a judge it is a legally binding document. Our goal is to have a peaceful process that yields a mutually agreed upon arrangement that is fair and equitable. Hiring an experienced, knowledgeable, affordable mediation firm can make all the difference.
To get a more in depth understanding of these straightforward steps, please visit https://affordablemediationaz.com/5-step-divorce-mediation-process/ and or download our Divorce Mediation Preparation Checklist.