Divorce Mediation

A Practical Path Through Divorce

Divorce mediation offers couples a more private, practical, and collaborative way to resolve the issues involved in separation and divorce. At Kitson, Haffner & Hyde, LLP, Mr. Hyde helps parties work through parenting, support, property, and related family-law issues in a structured setting designed to reduce conflict and keep decision-making in the hands of the people most affected by the outcome.

Mediation is not about one spouse “winning” against the other. The mediator does not act as a judge and does not impose decisions. Instead, the process helps both parties identify issues, exchange information, consider options, anad work toward a written agreement.

Why Consider Mediation?

• More Control
  Mediation keeps decision-making with the parties, rather than shifting control to a court.
• More Privacy
  Mediation allows sensitive family and financial discussions to take place in a more private setting.
• Practical Problem-Solving
  The process focuses on workable arrangements for the future, rather than relitigating every grievance from the past.
• Better for Co-Parenting
  For parents, mediation can help preserve the ability to communicate and make decisions about children after separation.
• Efficient and Structured
  A mediator helps identify the issues, organize the discussion, and keep the process moving.

Issues Addressed in Divorce Mediation

• Parenting schedules and parenting plans
• Decision-making for children
• Child support and children’s expenses
• Spousal maintenance / spousal support
• Equitable distribution of marital property
• Marital residence and other real property issues
• Retirement accounts and pensions
• Debt allocation
• Health insurance and life insurance
• Tax considerations
• Separation agreements
• Divorce timing and uncontested divorce logistics

How the Process Works

1. Initial Consultation
   The parties learn about the mediation process and whether it may be appropriate for their circumstances.
2. Identifying the Issues
   The mediator helps identify the topics that need to be addressed, including parenting, finances, support, property, and divorce logistics.
3. Information Gathering
   The parties gather and exchange the financial and practical information needed to make informed decisions.
4. Mediation Sessions
   The parties meet in structured sessions to discuss options and work toward resolution.
5. Written Agreement
   When agreements are reached, the terms can be documented in a formal written agreement, with each party encouraged to seek independent legal advice before signing.

Mediation is voluntary. Either party may consult with independent counsel at any point in the process.

Is Mediation Right for Us?

Mediation may be appropriate if:

1. Both parties are willing to participate in good faith.
2. Each party is prepared to exchange necessary financial information.
3. The parties want a private, less adversarial process.
4. The parties want to preserve a working relationship as co-parents.
5. The parties are willing to make decisions rather than have a judge decide.