Divorce can cost couples a small fortune, and leave them facing financial difficulty in addition to the already uncertain future. The average cost of a divorce that is litigated through the traditional court system starts at about $15,000 and can go up from there. Most of these costs are attorney fees, court costs, and hiring other experts such as a real estate appraiser, a tax adviser or a child custody adviser. If you are looking to spend less on your divorce, mediation can be another excellent choice for settling important divorce terms without breaking the bank. AMS Mediation specializes in helping couples conserve their valuable resources by using mediation to solve important issues such as division of property, developing a parenting plan (otherwise known as a custody agreement) and determining child and/or spousal support payments.
Role of the Mediator, MN
The state of Minnesota actually encourages couples to attempt mediation before working through the traditional court system to settle a divorce. The reason is simple – it can save you as well as the state money. The mediation process is guided by a neutral, third party with experience in interpersonal communication skills and knowledge of Minnesota law. Your neutral mediator will help you and your divorcing spouse identify the issues that are most relevant and important to your unique situation. Then you can gather pertinent documents and review these together in several mediation sessions. The role of the mediator is to help facilitate honest, open and productive conversation. Your mediator is not a decider — but instead works to ensure that the best possible outcome is found for all involved. AMS Mediation will guide you through the divorce process and can help facilitate creative and unique solutions to difficult problems.
The Mediation Process
Clients who work with the mediation team at AMS Mediation can expect to spend approximately $2000-$4000 on the process, depending on whether you decide to hire a professional for legal drafting. Most clients reach a complete settlement in between 6 – 8 hours of mediation occurring over the course of a 6 – 8 week period of time. Mediation is entirely confidential and can even work for divorces in which the conflict is high. AMS Mediation offers a free one hour consultation to answer questions from potential clients and provide information about the process for your specific case. For more information, call our team today at 952.252.1492.
