With out-of-court legal solutions you can:

• Avoid costly litigation.

• Divide your assets and debts, called equitable distribution in family law.

• Divide your pensions and 401(k)’s.

• Consider the tax implications of various decisions.

• Determine spousal support, called maintenance or previously called alimony.

How can I get divorced with mediation?

There are 3 phases to getting divorced using mediation: 

Phase 1: Mediation. 

• You and your partner will come together to mediate with Michelle. 

• Currently, this is done remotely using Zoom or other platforms to mediate in a safe way during this pandemic. 

• Usually takes about 5-8 sessions, approximately 2 hours each. The length depends on how complex your situation is, financially or personally.

• Financial documents will be exchanged

• Summaries of each session will be written up by Michelle

• It is recommended that each person hire a consulting lawyer to advise them of their legal rights throughout the mediation. Michelle can help you find a lawyer that’s right for you and your budget. See FAQ's for more information on why this is still more affordable than the traditional route of each party hiring a lawyer.

Phase 2: Writing up the Separation Agreement. 

• Michelle puts on her lawyer hat and will write up your Separation Agreement, a legal document the Court needs to approve. Because Michelle was your mediator and wrote up your mediation summaries of each session, it’s easier for her to write up your agreement. 

• Usually takes 5-7 hours, depending on how complicated the financial separation is, e.g., is there an apartment or home to separate, pensions or 401(k)’s? 

Phase 3: Filing the uncontested divorce papers. 

• Michelle will prepare and file the uncontested divorce papers, which is a group of many different documents you need to get divorced.