The duration of settlement negotiations varies depending on the complexity of the case. However, mediator Moura Robertson strives to expedite the process, aiming for the most efficient resolution.

Mediation is an informal, private negotiation process where a specially trained, neutral third party called a "mediator" helps a couple identify and work through the issues of their separation or divorce.

No, although a mediator is typically a licensed attorney, they must remain completely neutral. They cannot meet with either party separately, nor can they provide legal advice or represent either party to the divorce.

Mediation fees are paid by the hour with each party being responsible for paying one-half of the cost, unless otherwise agreed. The overall cost of divorce mediation varies from case to case, depending on the complexity of the issues to be addressed and time involved in gathering necessary information, meeting with the couple and preparing a memorandum of the agreements reached. Rest assured, Moura Robertson's hourly rate for mediation services is highly competitive in order to accomplish Divorce Settlement Services' mission to provide a high-quality, affordable divorce settlement service to the general public.

The mediator gathers the information necessary for negotiation purposes and serves as a facilitator so the parties may reach a mutually agreeable settlement. The mediator can prepare a marital balance sheet from the information provided, identify missing information to be obtained, help develop a parenting or joint custody plan and calculate spousal and child support, if applicable. The mediator also prepares a memorandum of understanding regarding the agreements reached through the mediation process from which the necessary legal documents may be prepared in an uncontested legal divorce process.

No, ethically, an attorney mediator cannot prepare your court documents because they must remain completely neutral, but they can provide you with information about the legal process and refer you to divorce attorneys and other professionals, as needed, to complete the necessary paperwork from a memorandum of your mediated agreement.

It is always advisable for each party to seek independent legal advice, as one lawyer cannot legally advise opposing parties to a legal separation or divorce. People may say they "used one lawyer" for their divorce, but that is misleading. In that type of situation, the reality is that the person who paid the lawyer is that lawyer's client and the other spouse is unrepresented. If you are already represented by an attorney, your attorney may participate in the mediation with you.

To start the mediation process, simply reach out to Divorce Settlement Services and schedule a mediation session. Divorce mediator Moura Robertson will take it from there, from intake and information gathering to conducting your mediation session(s) and preparation of your memorandum of understanding. If you have more questions about the mediation process and Divorce Settlement Services, you and your spouse may schedule an initial, joint session with Moura before proceeding. Please note that, because a mediator is a neutral professional, she cannot consult with one spouse without the other.