In divorce mediation clients have a lot of control over the process.  Clients can decide how often to meet, when to meet, and how detailed they want to be in their divorce agreement.  Most couples want the “big” holidays included in their parenting plan, while some don’t want to specify who has the kids on Columbus Day. You can get as specific or open-ended as you want.  But, who sets the agenda items for the meetings themselves?

At Westfield Mediation, LLC, we have developed a process to help couples efficiently complete divorce mediation.  The first meeting is the same agenda for all new clients.  We explain how divorce works in New Jersey, how the process of divorce mediation works and specifically how Westfield Mediation functions.  We review our rules and agreement to mediate.  We have found that a well-informed client is the best client.  We want couples to understand how mediation works and what we can and can’t do for them before they agree to proceed any further.  We do not want to waste clients’ time or money.  We have found that starting from square one on day one is the most useful tool. 

If children are involved, the next meeting will address the parenting plan.  We have found it useful to know how much time each parent is spending with the kids before moving on to finances, because your finances will be affected by your new parenting plan.  After the parenting plan we move on to big picture finances…what is happening with your house, retirement funds, credit card debt, college savings, etc.  We also help you develop a budget for your new future’s day to day expenses.  Lastly, we address spousal support, also known as alimony, and child support.  These two issues are intertwined.  The more money you receive in spousal support, the more money you have to contribute to the cost of raising your children, so you will receive less money in child support.  We can also address any issues that are personal to your situation, such as pets. 

We have found that following this process is the most cost-effective way to get from start to finish, saving the client’s time and money.  Clients come to us for our expertise in divorce mediation and through our years of experience, we have found this process to work best. 

For more information about Divorce Mediation contact Randi M. Albert, JD, or Michelle Weinberg, LMFT, at Westfield Mediation, LLC, at 908.913.0373.  View our website at www.westfieldnjmediation.com or email us at info@westfieldnjmediation.com