NCJ Number
94128
Date Published
Unknown
Length
208 pages
Annotation
Based on the experiences of a couple that used divorce mediation, this book first contrasts the benefits of divorce mediation with those of traditional divorce adversarial procedures, followed by a step-by-step presentation of the divorce mediation process.
Abstract
The divorce mediation advantages identified include (1) the elimination of long and costly legal battles; (2) provision for the couple to assume primary responsibility for handling their disputes; (3) encouragement of couples to separate the issues from the guilt, egos, and other people involved; (4) facilitates the couple and their children dealing effectively with each other and with their new lives; and (5) prevents much of the emotional pain engendered by the lengthy adversarial process. Using the authors' own mediation experience, chapters are devoted to orientation, custody and visitation, general financial disclosure, financial support, preparation and review of the draft agreement, and completing the divorce procedure. Chapters also address premediation feelings, how to find a mediator and what to ask, negotiation skills, organizing financial information, information about State divorce laws, and future of mediation. The appendix contains samples of a memorandum of agreement; a tax consultation memorandum; custody, property, and separation agreement; final decree of divorce; and marital mediation rules. Footnotes and 54 bibliographic listings are provided.