The Center's primary approach to simplifying the divorce process is mediation. In mediation, the parties seek to resolve the issues in their divorce or separation with the assistance of one or more impartial neutrals. The mediator helps keep the parties focused on the issues, despite the emotional tension that frequently is present. The mediator can also provide information about relevant statutes and court decisions that help the couple understand what may happen, should their divorce be decided in court. Direct communication allows the parties to craft an agreement that is tailored to their needs, rather than to the opinion of a judge.
The mediators of A Center for Divorce Solutions are trained in helping couples overcome the hurdles that sidetrack divorce negotiations. Most of our mediations take between four and six hours, even for a divorce involving children and substantial assets. When agreement is reached, the mediator prepares a Memorandum of Understanding that becomes an enforceable court order after the decree is finalized. On the rare occasion that complete agreement is not forthcoming, the parties can ask the judge to make the decision for them.
At the Center, we also offer an optional male/female co-mediation team in order that our clients feel as comfortable as possible in a stressful, emotional situation. Co-mediation provides a safe environment where the parties may feel that they have "gender representation" for developing an effective, cooperative agreement.