How to Talk to Your Spouse About Mediation

Couples often reach out about the mediation process for the separation, divorce or custody, but are not sure how to approach the subject with their partner or significant other. Perhaps the mediation process sounds like a good choice for your family but having the initial conversation may be difficult. Chances are, it may already be…

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Things to Consider Before Divorce

Before Divorce Consider

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…

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Mediation Resources

There is a wealth of information available about divorce, but couples in mediation often desire specific tools and resources to facilitate a peaceful separation and co-parenting plan. Below you will find a list of my favorite resources, including links for mediation and conflict resolution. Books Better Apart: The Radically Positive Way to Separate, Gabrielle Hartley…

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Why Mediate?

Why 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…

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MEDIATION MISTAKES

NOT PREPARED Each of you must prepare your documents and gather information for each mediation session. Taking the time you need to organize your finances, and sharing information with your partner early on will save you time and money in the long run. If information is missing or incomplete, it can be difficult to make…

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How 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…

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SAMPLE SCRIPT

Need help talking about divorce mediation with your partner or co-parent? Use this script to have the initial conversation about mediation with your spouse or co-parent: Hi [Partner’s name], I recognize that this process has been difficult for both of us, but it’s my hope we can move forward in a positive direction. Have you…

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CO-PARENTING DURING THE HOLIDAYS

The holiday season can be challenging, however, careful planning and communication with your co-parent can help make the season a smooth one. Start planning early Conflict arises when parents wait until the last minute to arrange an event with the children. During the holidays our lives are already overscheduled with festive parties and events and…

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Affordable Process

USE A MEDIATOR FIRST Using a mediator is a great first step and can help you resolve issues without going to court. Mediation is an affordable tool to help families resolve conflict and navigate the family law process. The process starts when you and your spouse or co-parent meet together with the mediator to decide…

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