How it works

The steps in a typical mediation consist of a series of meetings at the mediator's office. The mediator's job is to help you to work out a fair and enforceable agreement without a nasty and expensive court battle.

Step one:
 At the first meeting the mediator helps you to identify the key issues and set the course to resolve them. The mediator will also help you to understand and state your own needs in a safe, non-confrontational environment.

Step two:
 The mediator will help you to pinpoint and gather all necessary financial information, such as bank or brokerage statements and appraisals. The mediator will guide you through the issues, making sure that each of you has full information before making any choices. As needed, the mediator may suggest consultation with other professionals, such as financial specialists, appraisers, child psychology experts, and attorneys.

Step three:
 Once all issues are resolved, your legal agreement is drafted. If the mediator is an attorney, he or she often drafts this. If not, the mediator can help you to find an attorney to do this.