Next Steps After Divorce or Separation Mediation
If you have recently completed mediation, you have taken the best possible path towards a brighter future. Mediation takes courage, patience, and a commitment to a peaceful outcome. After mediation, there are a few important next steps to ensure a smooth transition.
1. Review Your Mediation Documents Carefully
Take the time to carefully read the first draft of your mediation documents. The draft gives you an opportunity to reflect, identify any questions or concerns, and ensure the language accurately reflects your understanding of the agreement.
Now is a good time to consult with an attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional – their advice can provide you with peace of mind.
You may make changes to your document before finalizing, as long as you both agree. If you would like extra clarity or if a conflict arises, consider scheduling a “Document Review Session” with your spouse or co-parent. This meeting allows us to review the document together and address specific sections or concerns before you finalize the agreement.
Please note that your mediator will not make changes to mediation documents over email—discussion and clarification are most effective in a structured setting.
2. Finalize
Once you have completed your careful review, be sure to:
- Save the draft document and the final document separately to your computer or cloud drive.
- Remove any “DRAFT” watermarks.
- Print two copies of the final draft – one for each of you.
- Sign and initial all pages in blue ink.
- A notary is optional and not required for your mediation documents. However, you may choose to have your signatures notarized if you prefer an added layer of formality or verification.
- Each of you should keep a fully signed copy for your records.
- Keep this in a safe place. Your mediator will not store documents for you.
3. Update Your Information
Now is the time to update your accounts and estate plans:
- Be sure to complete account transfers and title changes in a timely manner.
- Update beneficiaries on life insurance, retirement accounts, and similar assets.
- Draft a new Will and Testament to reflect your post-divorce or post-separation intentions.
- If applicable, arrange for the preparation of a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO), COAP, MDPO, TSP Order, or IRA transfer after your divorce is finalized to divide retirement funds.
4. Tax Considerations for Parents
If you are sharing or alternating child tax exemptions, prepare IRS Form 8332. Your accountant or the IRS website can help you obtain and submit this form correctly.
5. Keep Records and Communicate
Keep copies of all disclosures, payment records, supporting documents, and spreadsheets used during mediation in a secure location. If financial difficulties arise or if any aspect of your agreement becomes unworkable, communicate promptly.
If a conflict arises, a short mediation session can often prevent unnecessary conflict or court involvement.
6. Agreements Can Be Adjusted
Life happens. If both of you agree to a change in terms—whether it’s about support, parenting time, or something else—you are free to do so. Just remember – only written agreements signed by both of you are legally enforceable.
7. Be Mindful of Joint Debts
If one of you has agreed to pay a joint debt, that does not mean the other person is off the hook in the eyes of the lender. Stay in communication and make alternative arrangements if financial issues arise. Scheduling a mediation session can typically resolve most issues and provide you with peace of mind.
8. Changing Your Name?
If you plan to resume a prior or maiden name, Pennsylvania allows you to do so, but timing is important. You must file a Name Change Request with the court before your divorce is finalized. Once the divorce decree is entered, you cannot add a name change retroactively through the divorce file.
9. Considering Remarriage? Plan Ahead!
If you plan to remarry, a mediated prenuptial agreement can be a wise step to clarify financial expectations and protect your future. A mediated prenup helps you transition to your next chapter peacefully and transparently from the beginning.
10. How to File for Divorce
Mediators do not file court documents. If you have completed mediation and have agreed to file for a no-fault divorce in Pennsylvania, the filing party (plaintiff) should initiate the process in a timely manner. Here are a few filing options to consider: How to File for Divorce After Mediation.
If either of you has a question or concern, please contact your mediator as soon as possible, as mediation cases are closed 30 days after inactivity.
Thank you for choosing mediation!
Each of you has taken an important step toward resolving difficult issues with respect and cooperation. Thank you for trusting me to guide you through this process.
🌿If you found mediation helpful, I would be grateful if you shared your experience with others who might benefit from a peaceful approach. Your referral helps other families find a better way forward.🌿
NOT LEGAL ADVICE: The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.