You and your spouse have decided that it is in your and your children’s best interests for you two to separate. So far, things are amicable and you would like it to stay that way. If you need assistance negotiating a divorce, please read on, then contact an experienced Bergen County, New Jersey divorce mediation lawyer to learn if you should consider divorce mediation instead of litigation.
What is divorce mediation in New Jersey?
Mediation occurs when you and your spouse elect a neutral person, i.e. the mediator, to discuss openly the issues involved in the divorce such as custody of the children and parenting time, child support, division and distribution of the marital property, and alimony. The sessions usually last two hours. After the initial session, the couple attends 1 to 5 one-and-a-half- to two-hour sessions in which the mediator will guide them to make their own decisions on how they wish to end their marriage.
Why should you consider divorce mediation instead of litigation?
By choosing divorce mediation instead of litigation, you increase the likelihood of a peaceful divorce. Such peaceful divorces offer the following benefits:
- Calmly discussing and deciding the terms of the divorce
- Divorcing without setting foot in court
- Keeping the costs of divorce as low as possible
The average cost of divorce mediation in the Garden State varies from $100 to as much as $250 a session. It usually is requested that both parties contribute to the costs, eliminating any possible feelings that the one who pays may be getting preferred treatment. That price range would include from 1 to 5 mediation sessions, the preparation of a settlement agreement and the cost to prepare and file the paperwork for a divorce. Conversely, the average total cost of divorce is $4,500 to $5,000 when there are no contested issues. The average rises to $6,500 to $7,500 when there is one dispute but no trial and $11,000 to $13,000 for two or more disputes that are resolved through a settlement.
How can a New Jersey family law attorney help you?
As has been illustrated, engaging the services of a divorce mediator can save you much-needed time, stress and money. If you believe that you and your spouse can part on more or less amicable terms, then you should reach out to a skilled New Jersey divorce lawyer to discuss your next steps. Our firm will fully apprise you of your rights and responsibilities and guide you through every step of the process. Life is too short to be unhappy. Give us a call today.
Contact Our Experienced Bergen County Firm
If you are facing any family law matter, contact HD Family Law today to schedule your initial consultation.
