Are You a Candidate for Mediation?
You don't have to have an agreement on all of the issues or even be speaking to one another to come to mediation. Some of my clients don't even want to be in the same room with each another. Others are very friendly.
The only criterion is that you both be willing to try to work out an agreement. My job is to help you explore all the options for settlement and get you through the legal process with as little friction and expense as possible.
Most of the couples who come to me for mediation have not yet filed for divorce and have not retained attorneys. However, even if you're already involved in a litigated divorce, you and your spouse can still try mediation. In that event, you can bring your lawyers with you or you can come without them--though you want to be sure to let them know that you're doing this.
You lose nothing by trying mediation, other than the cost for my time. If it doesn't work, you can always use the traditional adversarial approach. If mediation does work, you will save yourselves a good deal of grief and expense. About 90% of the divorces I mediate, do settle in mediation.
Talking to Your Spouse About Mediation
If you think mediation is a good option, the first step is to discuss it with your spouse. You might show him/her this website or my book, The Divorce Mediation Handbook, mentioned throughout this website. You could also suggest that your spouse call me. I'll be happy to discuss mediation with either or both of you. The advantages to point out are that it reduces fighting, lowers your costs, and (because it keeps the divorce friendlier) makes it easier for your children.
Estimate of Costs
If you're interested in mediating with me, I can estimate the cost of your mediated divorce after asking a few questions. I charge by the hour, so the cost varies depending on the complexity of the case.
Issues that usually add to the time and therefore the cost are:
In addition to my fee, you will pay a filing fee to the court. (That's usually $200-$300, depending on which county you file in and other factors.)
Please call me at 512-461-4792 if you'd like an estimate of the cost of your divorce.
Appointments
Appointments normally take 2-3 hours (often less if there are no children). If you wish to talk to me or make an appointment, just call my office at 512-461-4792
What to Bring with You
We usually need certain information and documents to complete your paperwork. You don't have to bring these to your first meeting, but it may save you trouble later if you do.
Sometimes couple also bring a spreadsheet of their assets and debts. That's helpful, but it isn't essential. You also may want to each work on a list of your anticipated income and expenses after divorce--particularly if child support and/or alimony is an issue. Again, this is optional. If you do want to prepare information about assets and debts or your income and expenses, you'll find forms available under Helpful Tools.