Mediation Is Not Adversarial

In mediation, the couple hires a trained, impartial person to help them resolve disputes. The mediator acts as a guide, encouraging communication and writing agreements.

Both parties come to understand the issues and develop creative solutions. Most importantly, the parties stay in control of their family decision-making.

Usually, through mediation, parties reach an agreement more quickly and economically. Mediation can work for couples that have decided to divorce as well as for couples that want a separation but are unsure about divorce.

Advantages of mediation

• Mediation is confidential and private. There is no public disclosure of personal issues or finances.
• The process promotes communication and cooperation.
• It allows you to control the decisions that affect your future.
• It enhances future family relationships by reducing conflict.
• Mediated divorce agreements are more likely to be followed than court-imposed settlements.
• Mediation is usually quicker and less expensive than litigation.
• We encourage people to look to the future, instead of the past.
• You’ll benefit from having an impartial third party helping you.

Prepared from information by the Family Mediation Council