No one gets married with the intention of getting a divorce. No matter how long or short your marriage, at one time you loved and respected each other. Mediation is a way to help you end your marriage with the same respect and love that was present when it began. This is especially important if you have children whose lives will change with this event. Here are some basics about the process of filing for divorce

Mediation is a less complicated process and usually much less expensive than litigation. You and your spouse agree to explore mediation and one of you calls a mediator. The mediator will, at no cost, answer all your questions about the process from beginning to end. If you choose this path, you will make an appointment after your spouse also calls and speaks with the mediator. You may be required to submit a retainer of $750-1500 before the first scheduled appointment. You will be charged only for the time you are actually in session and for one hour for the mediator to draw up a draft and the email communication between you to finalize it.

The product is called a Memorandum of Understanding. It is equivalent to a settlement agreement. This document belongs to you and you can file it with the court yourselves, or hire an attorney to file an uncontested divorce. That requires only one attorney and will be less costly. However, we recommend that each party have his/her own attorney to look over the agreement.