How Long Does the Process of Mediation Last?

There are many couples in the state of New Jersey who do not want to go through litigation in order to get a divorce. It is because of this that alternative methods exist to achieve this, including mediation. The process of mediation exists with the assistance of a third-party in order to negotiate the terms of a couple’s marital issues in order to reach amicable decisions. When facing situations of divorce, it is important to retain the services of an experienced New Jersey divorce attorney for guidance in these matters.

Who Attends Mediation?

The process of mediation takes place with both spouses to accomplish the goal of establishing the future of their marital issues. During this time, they are accompanied by an unbiased third-party. This individual exists in order to assist the couple and mediate any arguments as they reach these decisions. They are not there to make decisions for the spouses. Conversations that take place during mediation can include child custody, child support, spousal support, the division of assets, and more. 

How Long Does Mediation Last?

One of the benefits of mediation is that there is no set length to the process. It can last as long as the spouses in question need in order to resolve the issues that they have. In some cases, they can be resolved within a few sessions. More complex cases that require custody or parenting decisions, business valuations, or high-net-worth assets can take longer. Even if divorce cases take several sessions, the time spent here does not compare to several months of litigation. 

How Does Mediation End?

As mediation takes as long as spouses need, the process can end when the couple reaches an agreement regarding the terms of their divorce. In the event that the two spouses are unable to work together, they may need to end the process and go through litigation instead. If the couple is able to reach agreements through mediation, the mediator can then draft a Memorandum of Understanding for the spouses. This is a document that outlines the decisions that were made throughout the process. After reviewing it, the spouses can take the document to their attorneys who can create a Matrimonial Settlement Agreement. Once this document is signed, it can be presented to the court so that the couple can be officially granted a divorce.

Contact our Firm

If you need an experienced legal team to guide you through a divorce matter, contact Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark L.L.C today.