Many liken going through a divorce to experiencing the death of a loved one. Divorce stirs up intense emotions, tough questions, and uncertainty about the future.
Whatever the circumstances, divorce is never easy. But divorce through litigation is especially expensive, time-consuming, and confusing. I saw firsthand some of my friends and family go through painful divorces. I witnessed their stress and frustration as they dealt with lawyers and went to trial. I felt their exhaustion and their grief. Surely, I thought, there had to be a better way.
There is a better way, and it’s called divorce mediation. Divorce mediation gives spouses the flexibility, autonomy, and peace that they need to navigate ending their marriage. Divorce mediation is a process by which you and your spouse decide how YOU want to proceed with your divorce. The power is in your hands. The final agreement is one that you and your spouse negotiate. A professional mediator is a neutral third party who helps you reach this agreement. We’re simply here to facilitate the discussion and provide practical support.
Where I practice in New York, divorce through litigation is costly for both your time and your money. To start, both spouses must hire their own attorneys, which typically begins with a $10,000 retainer to each of your attorneys and only goes up from there. If your case goes to trial, a judge you’ve never met is deciding the fate of you, your spouse, and your children. And sadly, for all that time, money, and effort spent, oftentimes neither spouse ends up with what they truly wanted.
Divorce mediation empowers you to reach the decision that you want. We make the process as comfortable, peaceful, and unstrained as possible. We ask questions and take our time to make sure what you end up with is truly what you want. We draft the final agreement in terms you understand. Divorce mediators are uniquely qualified to help make the process as stress-free as possible. Mediators are often attorneys or psychologists, and always certified as professional mediators. Many of my clients are surprised to learn that mediators can handle all the legal ins and outs of divorce, from child and spousal support to division of property. If further help is needed, mediators have a team of professional connections like tax advisors and real estate appraisers at our disposal. Through one professional mediator, you are connected to an entire network of expertise.
When it comes to divorce, people spend a lot of time worrying about the outcome — about what they want. Yet, the process is what makes all the difference when it comes to divorce. You can end up overspent, exhausted, and unsatisfied. Or, you can feel in control and at peace. Divorce mediation is a better way to navigate your divorce.