Mediation is a private problem-solving process in which a neutral mediator, guides the parties through decisions and documents needed for family legal issues, including divorce. The two parties meet with the mediator to gather information, discuss options and create their own agreement. The mediator provides education and facilitates respectful communication to assist the couple to identify goals, negotiate effectively, and resolve issues.

The attorney mediator educates both parties about the legal process and issues, encourages the full exchange of information, promotes problem-solving and informed decision-making. The attorney mediator can, if necessary, also work with other experts to obtain necessary information, guides the parties through the necessary legal steps, and can draft and file all documents required by the court and for implementation of agreements.

The financial neutral expert can provide information to assist the parties to understand the financial component of the divorce. This neutral expert can include analysis of income, calculations of tax effect, and valuations of retirement accounts to assure that both parties understand all financial information before making a decision and can assist in generating options with creativity that take into account both current and future financial impact. If the parties seek to retain the services of this neutral financial expert, that cost is in addition to the cost of the attorney mediator.