Long Island Divorce Mediation Lawyers

For many, divorce is the most stressful and impactful legal matter they’ll ever face. Fortunately, for some couples, there are ways to mitigate the negative impacts of a divorce, such as through mediation. Here at Sklavos Law Group, PC, our skilled Long Island divorce lawyers have extensive experience guiding clients through the mediation process, and we stand ready to put that experience to work for you in your case as well. Contact our firm today to learn more about divorce mediation and whether this alternative dispute resolution method may be right for you.

What is Divorce Mediation?

Divorce mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process in which divorcing spouses work collaboratively, with the assistance of a neutral third party called a mediator, to resolve the terms of their divorce. The goal of mediation is to facilitate open communication and cooperation between the parties to reach mutually beneficial agreements on key issues such as child custody, parenting time, spousal support, and the division of marital property.

Unlike litigation, which often pits spouses against one another in a courtroom setting, mediation emphasizes problem-solving and compromise. A divorce mediator does not take sides or make decisions for the couple. Instead, their role is to guide discussions, help identify common ground, and ensure both parties understand the legal and practical implications of their choices.

In many cases, a family law attorney with experience in mediation can also serve as a mediator or work alongside the mediator to protect your rights and provide legal guidance throughout the process.

How Do I Know if Mediation is Right for Me?

Mediation offers several benefits for couples who are willing and able to work together to resolve their differences. It is often less expensive, less time-consuming, and less emotionally taxing than traditional litigation. For parents, it can also help preserve a cooperative relationship, which is vital for co-parenting effectively after divorce.

However, mediation may not be the best option for every situation. Mediation works best when:

• Both parties are willing to communicate honestly and compromise.
• There is a relatively balanced dynamic of power and decision-making between the spouses.
• Neither party feels unsafe or intimidated by the other.
• Both parties are committed to prioritizing the best interests of their children, if applicable.

Conversely, mediation may not be feasible if there is a history of domestic violence, significant distrust, or an unwillingness to negotiate in good faith. It is also less effective when one or both spouses refuse to fully disclose financial information, as transparency is a cornerstone of the mediation process.

If you are unsure whether mediation is the right choice for your divorce, our experienced lawyers at Sklavos Law Group, PC can help you weigh your options and determine the best path forward.

What is the Divorce Mediation Process Like?

The divorce mediation process in New York is designed to be structured yet flexible, allowing couples to work at their own pace while addressing all the necessary issues for a legally binding divorce agreement. Below is a general outline of what you can expect during mediation:

1. The process begins with an initial meeting where both spouses and the mediator discuss the mediation process, set expectations, and identify the key issues to address. If both parties agree to proceed, they will sign an agreement to mediate.
2. Both parties will disclose all relevant financial information, including income, assets, debts, and expenses. Transparency is crucial to ensure that agreements are fair and equitable.
3. The mediator will help the spouses identify the topics to be resolved, such as child custody, spousal support, and property division, and establish goals for resolving each issue.
4. Through a series of sessions, the mediator will facilitate discussions on each issue, helping the couple explore options and negotiate compromises. These discussions are confidential, which allows both parties to speak freely without fear that their statements will be used against them in court.
5. Once all issues are resolved, the mediator will draft a comprehensive settlement agreement outlining the terms agreed upon by both parties. It is advisable to have an attorney review the agreement to ensure it protects your rights and complies with New York law.
6. After both parties sign the agreement, it will be submitted to the court as part of an uncontested divorce filing. Once the court approves the agreement, it will be incorporated into the final divorce judgment.

Throughout the process, the mediator ensures discussions remain productive and focused, while respecting each party’s needs and concerns. At Sklavos Law Group, PC, we are committed to making this process as smooth and efficient as possible for our clients.

Contact Our Long Island Family Lawyers

Though divorce is always difficult and complicated, it doesn’t have to be hostile. The team of divorce lawyers here at Sklavos Law Group, PC has decades of experience representing clients seeking mediation over litigation, and we’re prepared to represent you as well. If you believe divorce mediation is right for you, simply contact us today so we can get started.