A divorce mediation lawyer is a person who can help couples work through divorce-related issues. These include child custody, parenting time, property division, and spousal support. The goal of a mediator is to help the parties reach a settlement agreement that both find acceptable. A good mediator is an experienced professional who has helped others deal with similar issues in the past. These professionals may have a variety of backgrounds, including law degrees, business ownership experience, social work credentials, and CPAs.
The process of divorce is often lengthy and expensive, which is why many divorcing spouses try to save money by going through mediation rather than a traditional litigated divorce. Divorce mediation is also usually less stressful for everyone involved, particularly the children. However, it’s important for couples to understand the pros and cons of divorce mediation before deciding to proceed this way.
In general, the cost of divorce mediation is much lower than hiring a traditional lawyer to handle the entire case. Additionally, many divorce mediation programs offer a free initial session and reduced-fee follow up sessions.
However, mediation can be a difficult process for some couples, particularly when there’s an imbalance of power or when the other party has been deceitful or untrustworthy. This is why it’s best to consult with an attorney if you suspect your spouse is hiding assets or engaging in dishonest financial behavior.
Most mediators allow both parties to have their own lawyers present at the sessions, but they are not allowed to participate in negotiations or appear in court. These attorneys can still provide legal advice, review the final agreement before it’s filed with the court, and offer additional legal support if needed.