What happens in separation mediation?

In mediation, an impartial person (the mediator) helps people reach an agreement they can both accept. The mediator helps people talk the issues through in a way that often makes it easier for the couple to settle the dispute themselves. Mediators do not make decisions.

How do I legally separate my spouse’s finances?

Do: Pay attention to the titling of financial accounts. A separate account should be kept in the name of the spouse or in the name of a trust for a spouse, not as a joint account. Deposit dividends and interest from a separate investment account into a separate checking account.

Is mediation cheaper than divorce?

Mediation is typically less stressful and less expensive than a divorce trial, and it usually proceeds much faster. Because you and your spouse have the final say over your divorce matters, mediation also allows couples to maintain the power and control in their divorce, as opposed to asking a judge to decide.

What is the difference between mediation and divorce?

For divorcing parties, the divorce itself is the dispute and the mediator’s role is to help both parties (spouses) identify, negotiate and come to mutually-acceptable agreement on the various issues and financial matters required to end their marriage out of court.

How long does divorce mediation take?

A typical mediation averages 2-8 hours of mediation (usually in 2-4 separate sessions), and drafting of the Marital Settlement Agreement also fall within that the range. Therefore parties should expect to pay for 4-16 hours for the mediator; every matter is different.

How does financial mediation work?

The mediation process usually takes between two and four meetings depending upon the complexity of your financial situation. It helps if you can provide as much information and documentation as possible regarding mortgages, house valuations, insurance/endowment policies and any other investments you may have.

What is the next step after mediation?

Dismissal. If the mediation resulted in a settlement or agreement, once the releases are signed and the payment is made, the lawyers will send a dismissal order to the judge who signs the order. At that point, the legal case is resolved and in most civil cases the parties will not need to return to court.