Divorce mediation is a process in which two people who wish to divorce, negotiate an agreement which is acceptable to both of them. This is done with the help of a third party called a mediator. The divorce mediator facilitates good communication between the spouses but doesn’t make any decisions for them. If you are currently in the process of divorcing your spouse you may be asking ‘How does divorce mediation work, and is it right for me?’. This article covers some basic facts about divorce mediation and seeks to explain how the process works.

How Does a Divorce Mediator Avoid Taking Sides?

Divorce mediators are professionals who have training and experience in mediation work and know how to remain neutral during divorce negotiations. They understand that their job is not to decide who is right or wrong or to make decisions for the spouses.

The mediator concentrates on helping the partners make decisions that are agreeable to both of them so he is required to remain objective and neutral.

How are the Legal Rights of Mediating Spouses Protected?

There are many legal issues involved when a couple institutes divorce proceedings and each spouse should know his or her legal rights before making any agreement. For this reason, divorce mediation is often preferred and a professional consulted.

Independent research is also done to ensure the correctness of the process. It is advised to do this early on and follow it up with a legal review before signing the divorce agreement.

Is Divorce Mediation Done With Both Spouses Together or Separately?

This often depends on the mediator. Some like to work separately with each spouse and act as a ‘go-between’ while other mediators arrange meetings where both spouses are present and direct communication is encouraged.

Both choices have pros and cons, however, and do depend on the relationship between the spouses. If you are considering divorce mediation you may want to discuss this issue with your spouse and the mediator in advance.