What to Expect During Your Divorce Mediation Consultation
At Transitions Mediation Center, we offer a free, half-hour consultation for divorce and mediation, in person or by Zoom. It’s important that both you and your spouse attend this meeting, to preserve the neutrality of the process. Below is a quick outline of what you can expect during our first mediation consultation.
There are four goals I hope to accomplish during the divorce mediation consultation:
1. Get to Know You
I’ll need basic information like your address[es], phone numbers, emails, dates of birth, marriage, and separation (if applicable).
You’ll also let me know the names and dates of birth of any children you have, so that I’ll understand whether we’ll be dealing with parenting issues.
I’ll ask about your work histories, current incomes, educational backgrounds, and, sometimes, future career goals. This information lets me know if spousal support (alimony) will be an issue.
Many divorce mediators collect this information using an intake form. I prefer to get it directly from my clients as it gives me a chance to connect with you personally.
2. Share how the mediation process works
I explain the basic principles of mediation, and what you’ll need to do to make mediation work as efficiently as possible. I will give you an idea of how long the mediation process takes, and how much it costs.
I point out that even though I am an experienced divorce attorney, I am not working with you in this capacity. Acting as a mediator, I cannot give you specific legal advice, nor advocate for either of your interests, and I must remain neutral on the final decisions you each make during the divorce mediation process.
I will emphasize that you cannot lose any rights in mediation because you do not sign any final, legally binding document until the process is complete and you’ve had a chance to review your joint agreement with your own counsel, should you choose to do so.
3. Briefly discuss divorce law in New Jersey or Pennsylvania
It’s important that you develop a general understanding of divorce law and how litigation differs from divorce mediation. Depending on where you are based, I explain the principles of divorce law, so you’ll have an idea how particular issues might be decided in court, based on my knowledge of the law and my long experience.
4. Answer any questions you may have
We don’t begin mediating at the consultation. But you may have specific questions about my background and mediation philosophy. Or you may ask about certain points of law.
I also provide you both with a Mediation Checklist that will enable you to collect and organize the financial information and mediation budget you’ll need when dealing with the issues of alimony and child support.
Some sample questions other clients have asked:
What are your qualifications and experience in cases like ours?
What happens if divorce mediation doesn’t work?
How can you tell if we are good candidates for divorce mediation?
Visit our Divorce Mediation Guide to learn more about how mediation could be the right fit for you.
Start Moving On With Your Life!
Schedule your free initial mediation consultation with Transitions Mediation Center and learn how mediation can help you find a mutually beneficial agreement in your divorce.