Divorce Mediation

Mediation is a big part of how divorces get resolved in Maine. When a divorce involves minor children, the court generally requires the parents to try mediation before it will hold a contested hearing. Many couples without children choose it too, through a private mediator, because it costs less and the outcome is theirs to shape.

A mediator is neutral. They help the conversation along, but they don't give either spouse legal advice and they can't tell you whether a proposal is a good deal for you. That's our job. Before the session, we go through your finances and priorities with you, so you know what you're entitled to under Maine law and where you have room to compromise.

Depending on the case, we can sit in the session with you, or stay on call while you meet with the mediator and check in during breaks. Either way, nothing becomes final until you've had a chance to review it with us.

Once an agreement is reached, it has to be written up clearly enough to hold up later. Vague terms about the house, a retirement account, or a holiday schedule are a common source of future fights. We make sure the agreement says what you meant, and we get it filed and approved by the court.

Mediation isn't right for everyone. If there's a history of abuse, or one spouse is hiding assets or refusing to engage, a negotiated agreement may not be safe or realistic. In those cases, we'll talk about other ways forward, including asking the court to decide.