What is Mediation

Separation and divorce are extremely stressful – in the hierarchy of life’s most stressful situations, divorce is ranked second only to the death of a child. This high level of stress can leave each spouse feeling afraid, frustrated, angry, bitter and confused.

You may feel overwhelmed during this emotional time. Many separating couples just want to “get it over with” so they can move on to the next phase of their life. The need for closure becomes overpowering and the relationship can easily become angry and hostile. However, anger and hostility is not effective when it comes to the end of your marriage and the division of everything and everyone that has been a part of it.

Mediation can help you and your separating spouse maintain your relationship. Mediation allows you to create an agreement that is right for you and your family without relying on lawyers, judges or arbitrators.

Mediation is a voluntary negotiation process whereby a divorcing couple works together with an impartial third party – a mediator – to construct an agreement that is mutually satisfactory for both parties. The agreement that a mediator creates is called a Memorandum of Understanding and is used to draft your separation agreement. During mediation, spouses develop an agreement to deal with issues such as parenting plans, spousal or child support, division of property, assets and debt.