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The divorce / separation mediation first begins with separate one-on-one 60-minute intake sessions with each party. This is conducted after all paperwork has been completed and returned. The mediator will go over intake questions with each party and ask follow-up questions as needed. Each party will be provided with at least 10 minutes to ask questions and voice any concerns regarding the mediation. If you believe you will need more time for questions and concerns, just let us know.

After the intakes, the couple will be asked to join an initial 2-hour group mediation session with the mediator. Assuming there have been no special requests, the mediator will begin by delivering an opening statement to the parties via a Zoom video call. Afterward, the parties will each have a chance to present their view of the dispute, raise issues at stake, and to share their feelings and concerns, uninterrupted.

We prefer video-conferencing whenever possible, but sometimes the topics are too sensitive; in these situations, we may instead rely on audio, chat, shuttle mediation and/or one-on-one sessions.

Next, the mediator guides the parties through a joint discussion. All parties, including the mediator, are free to ask questions to gain a better understanding of the issues and circumstances at play.

It is possible that the mediator or one of the parties may next request a caucus – this is a private meeting with the mediator. It will be confidential unless the party agrees to share certain information.

Finally, once all issues have been explored and opinions expressed, we reach the negotiation stage. This may be conducted in the same virtual “room” or via shuttle diplomacy as your mediator shuttles between the virtual rooms discussing offers and counter-offers.

Except for the intake and opening statement, these steps may repeat as necessary.

After one or more sessions, a successful mediation will end with the couple agreeing on all or some of the main issues. A mediation agreement can then be drafted and emailed to the couple to sign, notarize, and register with the local court.

Common issues mediated in postnuptial agreements may include: division of debts and assets, parenting time, parenting plans, division of family pets, child support, spousal support, and more.

Occasionally, a couple that is considering divorce or separation decides to give the union one final chance. In this case, a postnuptial agreement can be very useful.

In general, postnuptial mediations follow a similar pattern to divorce mediations, but with a completely different end-goal.

The couple first meets individually with the mediator for 60 minutes to complete the intake. Near the end, the parties will each have at least 10 minutes to raise questions and concerns. The mediator has the opportunity to ask follow-up questions based on your intake forms and the parties have the opportunity to raise questions and voice any concerns they may have regarding the mediation. If you believe you will need either more or less time for questions and concerns, just let us know.

Then the parties come together with the mediator in the first two-hour mediation session. The mediator will deliver an opening statement, and then each party will have the opportunity to voice their feelings and state (uninterrupted) their needs and wants in order to continue the relationship.

Next, the mediator guides the parties through a discussion which will consider what is realistic, and what each party is willing to sacrifice in order to make the union successful. Caucuses and shuttle-mediation are used as necessary. Additional sessions are scheduled as necessary until an amicable agreement can be reached. If an agreement cannot be reached, the couple may opt to transition into divorce / separation mediation.

Included in the postnuptial agreement are all terms agreed upon by the couple as well as consequences for breaking terms of the agreement, generally eliminating the need for additional divorce mediation if the postnuptial agreement eventually proves to be unsuccessful.

Lastly, the mediator will offer to draft a postnuptial agreement which the couple may sign, notarize, and place in safekeeping.

Common issues mediated in postnuptial agreements may include: finances, division of labor within the home, work/life balance, family time, couple time, holidays, monogamy, intimacy, methods of verbal and nonverbal interaction, respectful behavior, alcohol/substance use or abuse, and more.

Prenuptial agreements are no longer just for the rich and famous. Many couples are now choosing the contemporary option to sign prenuptial agreements. These agreements can be as simple or complex as the couple wishes.

Typically, the parties first meet separately with the mediator for a 60-minute intake, in which the parties will have at least 10 minutes to ask questions and raise concerns. If you believe you will need more time for questions and concerns, just let us know.

Then, the parties meet together for the first prenuptial mediation with the mediator to discuss the issues and concerns. Caucuses and shuttle-mediation are used as necessary.

It is recommended to include in the agreement what will happen if one or both parties are unable to adhere to the terms of the agreement, in effect eliminating the need for additional divorce mediation if the postnuptial agreement eventually proves to be unsuccessful.

Once issues are agreed upon, your mediator will offer to draft an agreement which may be signed, notarized, and kept by the parties.

Common issues for prenuptial agreements may include specifications regarding: personal finances, the number and timing of children, division of labor within the home, home maker responsibilities and safety nets, monogamy, and more.