FAQ

Is Mediation for me?

YES - If you are able to collaborate, to seek to understand as well as be understood, are willing to seek fairness for both and wish to be in control of your own destiny. We share our experiences of what has worked for others and build options towards potential resolution.

NO - If you want to focus your energy on blaming rather than resolution and you seek a win-lose environment. We do not take positions for or against either party. We do not tell you what to do.

Who are AMcN’s clients?

· Couples seeking mediation come from all educational, economic and ethnic backgrounds. The process itself is rewarding and empowering to everyone.

· Couples are self-referred or referred by lawyers, therapists, clergy, accountants and other professionals.

How long does it take?

Depending on the number of issues involved and the cooperation of the clients, an agreement could be reached in just 2-3 hours. On average, a divorce/post-divorce mediation takes approximately 10-15 hours over 5-7 sessions. We generally book each session for two hour increments. The time involved depends largely on the willingness of both clients to share needed information, review potential options, and to be fully involved in the process.

Do I need a lawyer?

A lawyer is not necessary while you are engaged in the mediation process. We do urge you to seek individual counsel to review your agreement. An advisory attorney is also an option. We will always refer you to counsel when there are legal questions which arise during negotiations. Many of our clients are referred to us by lawyers when issues present themselves that appear to be resolvable through the mediation process.

What is the final outcome?

Upon reaching agreement on the issues, the mediator prepares a Mediated Marital Settlement Agreement or Memorandum of Agreement which is then reviewed by the parties and their counsel (if any), signed by the parties and may be then incorporated into the Divorce Decree or Modification.

What is considered a successful mediation?

We believe that the process belongs to the parties involved. The goal of the mediation is determined by the parties after discussion with the mediator about what each of the parties wish to accomplish within the mediation setting. Sometimes, the goals change as the process moves along. The mediator continues to check with the parties to see if each of their needs are being met. A full and complete agreement may not be possible in some cases...good people can continue to disagree. One goal of our mediators is to have the parties leave mediation with increased problem solving skills that can be used as a future resource.

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