General Questions
Do I have to get a lawyer for my divorce
No, a lawyer is NOT required for a divorce. Almost all states and counties have self-help resources to complete the standardized paperwork that is fill-in-the-blank court-approved forms.
My spouse got a lawyer, do I have to have one as well?
No, a Divorce Coach can save you tens of thousands of dollars.
How long does it take to complete a contested divorce?
1 to 3 years.
How much does a contested, “lawyered up” divorce cost?
A contested divorce with full legal representation will cost $50,000 to $150,000 PER PERSON. That is $100,000 to $300,000 per family in legal fees and court costs.
Do I have to get a lawyer, I don’t have an extra $50,000 to $100,000 to spend and do not know what steps or forms I need!
No, the process and forms are standardized by each county. If you need help with completing a form, most counties have a self-help assistance resource that can help, and you can always get a lawyer to help with that one specific task for a fraction of a “lawyered up” divorce.
What is the estimated cost of a non-contested divorce?
$1,000 to $3,000 for the entire process and takes 4 to 5 months depending on the court schedule and required waiting periods.
Why 4 to 5 months if we agree on everything?
Most states require a “cooling off period” so you must wait those months by law. There is no way around it, period!
Where do we need to go for the mediation appointment?
Mediation Solutions is online via Zoom. You can complete mediation from your home, cell phone, lawyer’s office, or the beach. You just need internet access.
How do we need to dress for mediation?
This is one of the most stressful times of your life, dress how you are most comfortable.
How do we know what forms and paperwork we need to do a divorce without a lawyer?
The court system has standardized forms you need to fill in the blanks that can be found on your local county’s website. Links provided to most counties in the states we service are included in your service.
My soon-to-be-Ex and I have agreed on everything and the court is still requiring us to go to mediation, why?
This is normal for most counties and divorce cases. Schedule a 1-hour season, we will discuss any matters that need addressed, when all issues are resolved your completion letter will be sent to both parties. If there are no issues to resolve, you can be done in 5 minutes!
We have a local law firm that offers mediation can we use them?
Absolutely, however Lawyers are busy and their time is extremely valuable. Please get a complete estimate for all services and fees, preparation and document prep time, travel, lawyers time, paperwork and communication before you schedule the meeting. Hourly rates at $300 to $500 an hour can add up quickly. A full day meeting can reach $3,000 to $5,000 very easy.
What is it like to have a Mediation Zoom call?
You (and lawyer if retained), will only speak to the mediator. You will never see or speak to the co-petitioner (your soon to be EX). Your mediator will speak with you, you will be placed in the waiting room while the mediator speaks with the other party then return to you and so on, for the entirety of the meeting.
More FAQs
Mediation is a conflict resolution process in which a neutral third-party mediator helps disputing parties find a mutually acceptable agreement.
While both mediation and arbitration involve a third party, arbitration results in a binding decision, while mediation allows the parties to make their own decisions.
Mediation is used for various disputes, including divorce, workplace conflicts, and business disputes.
Mediation itself is not legally binding unless a formal written agreement is made and filed with the court.
What is said during the session cannot be used in court if the mediation is unsuccessful.
Mediation is voluntary. However, in most divorce situations, the court will require both parties to attempt mediation before proceeding to trial.
Mediation sessions typically last a few hours to a day, depending on the complexity of the issues. Very rarely are multiple sessions required by agreeable parties and may be necessary for complex cases.
Mediators can be selected based on the area of dispute or through referrals from court or mediation organizations. Most common are Divorce and business disputes.
Mediation is often faster, more cost-effective, It allows the parties to control the outcome and find agreeable and creative solutions that might not be available in court.
The mediator works to ensure a respectful standard by setting ground rules, managing emotions, and ensuring both parties are heard.
Yes, mediation is effective in resolving workplace conflicts such as disgruntled employees or between employees and management.
If one party is not cooperating, the mediator may suggest ways to encourage but if mediation is not successful, the case may be forced to go to court.
Yes, mediation is often faster than going through the court system with most cases with resolved in 1 to 2 days vs. court that can take years depending on the complexity of the case.
No, a mediator cannot offer legal advice. However, they can provide information about the process and to understand their options. It is advisable for participants to consult with lawyers for legal advice.