Finances
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 MoreMediation for Separation
Are you considering separation? If so, it may be helpful to decide on the terms. Generally, there are two types of separation—informal and formal. Whether informal or formal, a separation can be physical, financial, or both.
INFORMAL SEPARATION
In an informal separation or trial separation, couples can use a mediator to agree to terms, including finances, custody, support, and other arrangements, without signing any legal documents.
Read MoreHow Much Does Divorce Cost?
A mediated divorce costs between $1,200 – $5,000.
Litigated divorce averages $20,000 +.
Divorce/custody battles can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Things 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 MoreBack to School Co-Parenting Tips
School is starting soon and this can be a difficult time for co-parents. Here are a few tips to ease the transition for the children. Start planning early. As soon as school, sports, and extracurricular schedules are released, share them with the other parent or caregiver so that appropriate scheduling can commence. It may be…
Read MoreThe Family Law Nightmare
As you may be aware, Family Law matters can quickly snowball out of control. Both sides may threaten to take the house or the kids or may falsely claim abuse to gain the upper hand in a divorce proceeding. Sadly, lawyers play a role in the drama by escalating conflict. Why would this happen? Simply…
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 MoreWHAT IF MY SPOUSE WILL NOT MEDIATE?
Unfortunately, most family law matters can drag out for many years and be very expensive and emotionally draining for a family. Often one spouse will be the cause of the ongoing conflict and refuse to negotiate. What if one spouse is reluctant or refuses to mediate? Why? Find out why your spouse will not mediate?…
Read More