Choosing Mediation

How can I find a good mediator?

Check out Nicole’s blog, “Tips for Finding the Right Divorce Mediator for Your Family”, for a nice overview of this subject. Finding a divorce mediator that works for both you and your spouse by encouraging fruitful discussion and advancing agreement is a big factor in the outcome of a mediated divorce. Unfortunately, mediators cannot simply How can I find a good mediator?

How can we mediate if we have a contentious relationship or if my spouse intimidates me?

Divorce mediation can still work, even when parties have a contentious relationship. Mediating a contentious divorce is certainly more difficult compared to a relationship that is amicable. However, that does not mean that mediation is impossible, or even that mediation is not still the best option. When parties get along and agree on most subject, How can we mediate if we have a contentious relationship or if my spouse intimidates me?

Are mediated divorces better for children than litigated divorces?

While every situation is different, mediated divorces are generally better for the children involved than if the divorce goes through litigation. Mediated divorces provide an opportunity for the parents of a child to come up with parenting plans that are uniquely suited for the child’s well-being and for the ability and resources of each parent. Are mediated divorces better for children than litigated divorces?

Is divorce mediation appropriate for same-sex couples?

Yes. Same-sex marriage has been legal in Massachusetts for well over a decade. All of our mediators have handled same-sex divorces in the mediation or litigation context, and while some of the dynamics of same-sex divorces can differ from opposite-sex divorce, these differences are generally minor.   Where same-sex marriage was legalized in Massachusetts in Is divorce mediation appropriate for same-sex couples?

Can we mediate even if we have already retained attorneys?

Absolutely. Like most divorce mediators, we suggest that spouses review their final mediated divorce agreement with an experienced family law attorney who represents only that spouse’s interests. Moreover, for divorces that involve complex financial issues or other complicated factors, it may be helpful for spouses to secure private attorneys as mediation coaches. An attorney acting Can we mediate even if we have already retained attorneys?