What to Expect in a Mediation Session
Mediation sessions are typically two hours. If you do not have minor children, you will most likely need two sessions. If you have minor children, three sessions is most common. 85% or more of Matthew's mediation cases settle within the anticipated duration. Occasionally, particular circumstances may require one or more additional sessions.
Typically, both parties and Matthew will meet together in the same room or via Zoom. You will discuss the decisions you need to make together with Matthew's help. Matthew believes in looking at the big picture as well as the details. He keeps conversations focused on your goals, such as:
Within each of those larger goals -- more or fewer than the ones listed may apply to your particular circumstances -- there are details to address to make the goals more likely to be achieved. When people come in with ideas about how to resolve an issue, it’s almost always a good start. Part of our job is already done. The next step is to focus on the details. The aspects that seem minor should not be overlooked, and Matthew will point out what needs to be added to your plans to make them complete and prevent problems later.
After all issues have been settled in mediation sessions, Matthew will compose the Marital Settlement Agreement, which is the written documentation of the agreements reached in mediation. It is a component of the divorce forms that the paralegal will complete on your behalf to enable you to file your divorce paperwork smoothly and efficiently.
Typically, both parties and Matthew will meet together in the same room or via Zoom. You will discuss the decisions you need to make together with Matthew's help. Matthew believes in looking at the big picture as well as the details. He keeps conversations focused on your goals, such as:
- Being sure you can afford to live as comfortably as possible
- Succeeding as co-parents
- Dividing assets
- Managing debts
- Potentially selling or keeping a home if you own your residence
Within each of those larger goals -- more or fewer than the ones listed may apply to your particular circumstances -- there are details to address to make the goals more likely to be achieved. When people come in with ideas about how to resolve an issue, it’s almost always a good start. Part of our job is already done. The next step is to focus on the details. The aspects that seem minor should not be overlooked, and Matthew will point out what needs to be added to your plans to make them complete and prevent problems later.
After all issues have been settled in mediation sessions, Matthew will compose the Marital Settlement Agreement, which is the written documentation of the agreements reached in mediation. It is a component of the divorce forms that the paralegal will complete on your behalf to enable you to file your divorce paperwork smoothly and efficiently.