Mediate
How is Alimony Calculated? A Clear, Practical Guide
How is alimony calculated in Pennsylvania? The answer depends on 17 statutory factors — from the length of your marriage to each spouse’s earning capacity. This guide breaks down what courts consider, how duration is determined, and how mediation can help you reach a fair agreement on your own terms.
Read MoreWho Keeps the House in Divorce?
Deciding who keeps the house in divorce involves more than emotion. Learn the pros and cons of mortgage assumption, refinance, cash-out options, and selling — plus key considerations when children are involved.
The family home is more than just real estate — it represents stability, memories, and security. But in separation or divorce, the question is not simply who wants the house? It’s who can afford the house — and the mortgage — moving forward?
If you own a home together, when determining who keeps the house in divorce, there are typically three practical options to consider: mortgage assumption, cash-out refinance, or sale.
Pennsylvania Custody Factors in Mediation
When parents choose mediation to resolve custody, child support, and family law issues, they keep control, reduce stress, and focus on what matters most—their child.
Pennsylvania law outlines 16 custody factors that courts review when determining a child’s “best interests.”
In mediation, we use these factors as a practical guide to help you create a clear, child-centered parenting plan that supports stability, cooperation, and healthy relationships. If you are divorcing or separating, using a clear, written parenting plan custody checklist can help you stay organized, reduce conflict, and focus on your child’s well-being from the start.
What if my spouse will not mediate?
What if my spouse will not mediate? When couples decide to separate, one of the biggest decisions they face is how to separate and divorce. The process you choose can have a lasting impact on your finances, your co-parenting relationship, and even your emotional well-being. Two common paths are a contested divorce and a mediated no-fault divorce. Here’s a closer look at how they compare.
Read MoreMediated Prenuptial Agreements
A prenuptial agreement is not about planning for divorce—it’s about planning for life. It’s a way to have meaningful conversations about money, goals, and values before misunderstandings arise.
Mediation supports this vision beautifully. Instead of separate lawyers arguing and negotiating positions, you and your partner meet with a neutral mediator to co-create an agreement that reflects your shared vision.
Read MoreManaging Conflict Outside of Mediation
Mediation is designed to help separating couples make thoughtful, respectful decisions without the stress of court. But when tensions are high and communication breaks down, the process can feel challenging. With the right structure and mindset, even the most contentious situations can move forward productively.
Read MoreFrequently Asked Questions About Mediation
How long does mediation take? How does mediation differ from court? Does mediation require a retainer?
Read MoreDivorce Mediation After Marriage Counseling
Couples therapists, clergy members, or marriage counselors help spouses and co-parents rebuild trust, improve communication, and strengthen their relationship. However, despite best efforts, some couples reach a point where reconciliation is no longer possible. When this happens, the transition away from the relationship can be just as crucial as the attempts to save it.
Read MoreHow to Talk to Your Spouse About Mediation
Discussing divorce or custody mediation with your spouse or co-parent can be challenging, especially during times of conflict. Even though mediation is the optimal choice for families, having the initial conversation may be difficult. Where to begin? Before initiating the discussion, it is helpful to prepare yourself for the conversation about mediation. First, gather the…
Read MoreWhat is a Mediated Parenting Plan?
A mediated parenting plan is an agreement drafted by parents with the help of a neutral third-party attorney-mediator. The goal is to keep your family out of court and create a flexible, child-focused plan that outlines how each parent will share financial and parenting responsibilities. Key Components of a Mediated Parenting Plan Benefits of Mediation…
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