The Length & Cost of Mediation

Is Divorce Mediation Right For You?

The length of mediation depends on what issues have been agreed to prior to mediation and what needs to be addressed by the mediator. Also, the amount of time spent in mediation is based on you and your spouse’s willingness to come to an agreement. The time spent in mediation can be reduced if you and your spouse resolve some issues prior to mediation so that the issues are narrowed. In our experience, divorce mediation may require several sessions. Again, the length of mediation will depend on the issues to be resolved, the complexity of those issues and the level of animosity the parties have for one another. If either one of the spouses is unwilling to move from their position on a particular issue, mediation may not work and the divorce may have to proceed to court. This is when the costs increase substantially and the “fight” beings.

How Much Does Mediation Cost?

According to a study published in Money magazine, the average divorce mediation costs around $3,000 and took approximately three months. We provide you that report as opposed to our experience because it is hard to give an average cost. We have had mediation cases cost only $1,000 and take one mediation session. We have had others take a full year and cost more than $10,000. The number of issues, the information needed, the complexity of the issues and the emotional state of the parties are all factors in the how long divorce mediation takes and, in turn, how much it costs.

Importantly, the cost of litigating your divorce instead of resolving it through mediation can be financially devastating. The average litigated divorce in New Jersey costs approximately $10,000 to $15,000 and takes between 12 and 24 months. If your case does not settle, a trial can cost $25,000 to $50,000 or more. No one knows your situation like you do. We stress that you do not want a judge, who is a stranger to your life, to make decisions about how to resolve your divorce. By going to mediation, you and your spouse have all the power to reach an agreement that you think it fair and reasonable under the circumstances. Also, remember that divorce in the court system is public. Anybody can sit in court and hear about your life. Divorce mediation is confidential, private and conducted behind closed doors.

Our firm offers divorce mediation services to clients all across New Jersey.

Want to learn more? Contact us to schedule a mediation session with the divorce mediators at Netsquire.