Divorce mediation is a cost-effective and resolution-based alternative to litigation. We offer mediation sessions in Brooklyn (Park Slope) & virtually via video conferencing.
As your mediator, I can help you move through the issues and find new ground. I will work with you to increase your understanding of each other and of your conflict. I will not take sides or make decisions for you — only you will decide what is best for your future & your divorce.
At Resolutions Mediation, we offer a full divorce process– from the separation agreement to the court papers.
Conflict is painful. Most people have a drive to resolve it.
When people understand the sources of conflict, there is a huge release of creative energy which leads to terrific brainstorming sessions about how to solve the problem and end the conflict. Once all the issues are on the table, we can begin to delve deeper into different points to gain an increased understanding. When that understanding is there, problem solving begins. As you and your spouse agree, I will begin to draft an Agreement reflecting your discussions of separation or divorce.
I now offer divorce mediation through video conferencing and in-person, to make resolution accessible and flexible.
CAN I MEDIATE IF I’M ANGRY?
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DIVORCE MEDIATION VS. LITIGATION
| Mediation | Litigation | |
| Average Cost | $4,000 – $12,000 per couple | $15,000 – $150,000 per spouse |
| How long it will take to get divorced | You decide how long it will take to get divorced | Lengthy negotiations, and court proceedings can take several years |
| Who decides the details of the divorce agreement | You and your spouse work out details together, so that the things that are the most important to you will be in your agreement | Lawyers and judges make decisions for you and your family |
| Who decides what’s best for your children | Parents (not a judge) decide what’s best for your children | Experts decide what’s best for your children |
| Lawyers used | Primarily use only one lawyer. | Retain two lawyers |
| Confidentiality | All information remains confidential | Courts keep your personal information |
WHAT ARE THE RATES AT RESOLUTION MEDIATION?
For mediation time, (this includes time on telephone calls or e-mail communication) we bill at an hourly rate. We are able to offer a somewhat sliding scale, with different mediators’ billing rates, which range from $415-475 in Brooklyn.
The fees for most mediated divorces in our practice end up between $4,000 and $12,000. We charge an hourly rate for the mediator’s time, both in and out of mediation sessions, billed in 6 minute blocks (1/10th of an hour)
WHERE WILL I FALL ON THE RANGE OF COSTS?
There are many points which determine how many mediation sessions it will take to resolve your separation and divorce. These include: the length of time you have been married, whether you and your spouse have accumulated a lot of property, whether or not you have children and – most importantly – where you each are emotionally, in the separation process.
Costs will also be affected by how much (or how little) work you and your spouse are able to do yourselves. These are the points which determine how many mediation sessions it will take to resolve your separation and divorce.
I have found that most couples are able to resolve all of their outstanding issues in an average of 2-5 sessions. Divorce mediation sessions usually last 1 ½-2 hours.
After you have made all of the decisions necessary, we can draft a Separation Agreement for you. Drafting the Agreement usually takes between 3 and 8 hours of mediator time, and we bill hourly for that service.
How do I know that my legal rights are protected?
Some couples who come to me for their divorce want to avoid attorneys. But many others decide to take the Agreement to separate attorneys for a 1-2 hour consultation. The Attorney will read the Agreement and make sure you are informed of your legal rights, and fully understand what you have agreed to, before you sign the Agreement. The Attorney fee for this kind of consultation will average between $600 and $1,500.
After I mediate, how do I file my divorce in court?
After the Agreement is signed, if appropriate, we can prepare and file the divorce papers for you in the courts. For that service, I charge a flat fee (ranging from $1,500-$2,500, depending on complexity) in addition to the court fees* which in New York are:
Purchase Index Number – $216.28.
Placement on Uncontested Divorce Calendar – $128.74.
Purchase 2 certified copies of Divorce Judgment – $24.72.
Fee for Filing Stipulation of Settlement: $36.05
2 Priority Mail Envelopes – $14
Total: $419.79.
*includes 2.99% credit card processing fee charged by the court.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DIVORCE MEDIATION
Get your questions answered on the Mediation FAQ page.
Read stories of Mediation to gain a better understanding of the process.
Find out here if Mediation is Right for You.