Mediation

An informal voluntary process allowing parties to work with a neutral third party (the "mediator") to develop a separation agreement. An agreement developed with a mediator is said to be a "mediated agreement."
Where appropriate, mediation is an excellent way to develop a separation agreement. Remember, the process is voluntary, so if either party refuses to continue, the mediation is terminated. Mediation requires cooperation and communication between the parties. You must trust each other financially to make full disclosure of each other’s financial condition and future earnings opportunities. Each party has his or her attorney review the agreement before it is signed.
Mediators are not marriage counselors, but may help you develop a parenting plan. We advise our clients to go this route where appropriate, but mediation is not suitable for everyone. Interestingly, more men are satisfied with the result than women who tend to believe that they would have done better before a judge.