How much does it cost?

Cost correlates with time. Logically, the longer it takes to reach a final agreement, the greater the cost.

The initial consultation is a set fee of $200.00 If the parties choose to proceed with mediation, there is a non-refundable one-time $300.00 administration fee. Subsequent individual mediation sessions vary in length and therefore cost. Sessions vary from one hour to two hours in length. The cost is $250.00 per hour. A one hour mediation session costs $250.00; a two hour mediation session costs $500.00.

Once an oral agreement is arrived at, and the parties request the drafting of a separation agreement, there is a charge of $750.00, in advance, for the preparation of the separation agreement. This covers the initial draft of a basic separation agreement, any minor revisions and up to on half hour of review with the advisory attorney. If the agreement is complex and/or further revisions are needed, there may be an additional cost based upon the same hourly rate of $250.00 per hour as is charged for the mediation sessions themselves.

How long does it take?

The length of time it takes to complete a mediation depends upon many factors: the number of issues the couple has to resolve, the attitude and level of preparation for the meetings, the degree of cooperation in exchanging relevant information and the willingness to compromise. The usual couple has between three to five mediation sessions over the course of three months time.

Who are suitable candidates to participate in the mediation process?

Couples who want to avoid the acrimony of a litigated case. Couples who want to spare their children the pain of a protracted litigated custody fight. Couples who want to resolve their disputes and still maintain respect for each other. Couples who can truly be reasonable and appropriately flexible.

Does it work?

For many people, it does work. Participants who complete the process report great satisfaction with the process and outcome. Agreements reached this way are much more likely to be adhered to by the parties as compared with court ordered outcomes after a trial.

Can we mediate if the dispute involves a privately owned business, rental property or complicated financial assets?

Yes. Sometimes there are valuation issues, tax questions, financial planning issues that are beyond the expertise of any individual mediator. Therefore, it can become necessary to retain appraisers, financial planners, business evaluators as part of the mediation process. Such persons are retained as neutrals to assist the parties on an "as necessary" basis and only upon the consent of both parties.

What if one spouse has already seen a lawyer?

Having see a lawyer is not at all incompatible with the mediation process. Whether before or during the process and especially before a final agreement is signed, it is recommended that each participant discuss with his or her own individual attorney the relevant law and whether he/she wishes to enter into the proposed agreement.

How can we prepare for mediation?

Think in advance about the issues that are important to you. Speak with an attorney. Engage in discussions with your spouse (always outside the presence of children), provided that both of you are willing to do so and can do so respectfully and politely. Gather relevant materials, such as mortgage documents, pension information, tax returns, W-2's, 1099's, pay stubs, bank statements, and brokerage statements.

Who pays for mediation?

The parties themselves agree who pays for the mediation. Usually the parties agree to split the cost equally between them.

Is mediation appropriate if there are few assets to distribute?

Even when people do not have many assets, they still may need help in resolving disagreements regarding those assets. Sometimes disagreements are not about the money. The initial consultation is designed to determine whether mediation is right for the couple.