Divorce Mediation

In Mediation, a neutral, impartial mediator assists the parties to negotiate and settle.  The mediator does not give either party individualized legal advice, but either or both parties may have counsel present during mediation sessions or obtain advice afterwards.  Once an agreement is reached, it is often reviewed by counsel.  As compared to Collaborative Divorce, the tenor of a mediation depends a great deal on the philosophy and style of the particular mediator, and whether he or she is determined to focus on needs and interests rather than positions.  Unlike Collaborative Divorce, mediation can and often does take place, in an adversarial atmosphere, whether or not litigation has been commenced, and counsel are not committed to resigning if the matter is not settled out of court.