Budget
Let’s Talk Co-Parenting
Early during the divorce or separation process, parents will face the issue of how to handle shared parenting time and finances. In most cases, parents strive towards shared parenting time so that the children can spend time with both parents. The key is to take into consideration each parent’s work schedule, the children’s school schedules,…
Read MoreFrequently Asked Questions About Mediation
How long does it take? Most mediation cases will take between one and three sessions. We meet together for 2-hour sessions. We schedule sessions a week or so apart so that you have time to gather the information you need between appointments. If you are both prepared, the mediation process moves quickly. Most mediations are…
Read MoreNo-Fault Divorce Mediation
Mediation can be used for any divorce, however, most mediation couples will choose the uncontested, no-fault divorce option. In Pennsylvania, a mutual consent no-fault divorce is the cheaper and faster option. CHOOSE NO FAULT. There are several different types of divorces in Pennsylvania. When a couple makes the decision to end a marriage, the decision…
Read MoreThings to Consider Before Divorce
Before starting a divorce, consider taking steps to ensure a smooth mediation process. Rushing into a legal and financial separation is not wise and can end up costing you and your family financial and emotional heartache. Here are a few things to consider before beginning the divorce process. 1. Individual Therapy Working on yourself before…
Read MoreWhy Mediate?
Mediation tends to be peaceful and positive. Most families prefer to make decisions together rather than using an adversarial court process. Mediation encourages cooperation and agreement and is a relatively simple process compared to alternative methods. AVOID COURT! Your family does NOT belong in court. Family matters should be private and confidential. Most parents and…
Read MoreHow to Save Money on Your Divorce
Divorce is not complicated, it is simply the end of your legal status as a married couple. In Pennsylvania, property and debts are divided equitably (Equitable Distribution). The process is straightforward, couples must equitably divide, distribute or assign the marital property. However, if you and your spouse want to fight about it, divorce lawyers will…
Read MoreWhat Type Of Mediation Is Right For Me?
Prenuptial/Premarital Mediation Prenuptial Mediation is for dating or engaged couples to discuss issues related to their relationship, wedding day, and future marriage. Premarital agreement mediation can help prevent an adversarial approach and help couples communicate and determine their own terms with a neutral mediator. In premarital mediation, you have equal bargaining power over the outcome.…
Read MoreThere’s No Such Thing As A Dragon
My career as a divorce mediator has taught me many lessons, and my clients have become my greatest teachers. I have noticed that several of the same issues repeatedly lead couples to my office for divorce or separation. The pattern I have seen so often brings to mind the children’s book “There’s no such thing…
Read MoreSupport in Pennsylvania
What is alimony? In Pennsylvania, alimony is a payment to an ex-spouse after a divorce. In some cases, a spouse may need financial assistance starting over and alimony can help that spouse with the transition. MYTH: I am entitled to alimony. NO! You are not entitled to alimony in Pennsylvania. You must ask a judge…
Read MoreHelpful Mediation Tools
During the mediation process, your mediator may offer tools and worksheets that help you make decisions for you and your family. The tools can be useful for budgeting and planning for your future after mediation. Below you will find a budget worksheet and a property and debt worksheet. Budget Form: Property and Debt Form: Please…
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