What is divorce mediation?

Written By: Matthew W. Peterson

Published: 03/05/2025

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What is divorce mediation? Divorce mediation offers a path to resolution that can save you time, money, and emotional stress. Instead of battling in court for years, mediation creates a space where both parties can work together to find fair solutions with professional guidance. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we will answer what is the divorce mediation process.

Understanding What Is Divorce Mediation Process

Divorce mediation is a voluntary process where you and your spouse meet with a neutral third party—the mediator—to negotiate the terms of your divorce. The mediator doesn’t make decisions for you but helps facilitate productive conversations about important issues like:

Child custody and parenting time arrangements
Child support calculations
Division of marital assets and property
Alimony considerations
Any other concerns specific to your situation

The mediator helps gather information about your finances, family circumstances, and priorities, then guides discussions toward mutually acceptable solutions.

Benefits of Choosing Mediation

Traditional contested divorces can drag on for 4-5 years or more, with attorney fees mounting by the hour. The longer and more contentious the process becomes, the more financial and emotional resources it consumes.

Mediation typically offers:

Significantly lower costs than litigation
Faster resolution (often completed in months rather than years)
Greater privacy than public court proceedings
More control over the outcome
Reduced emotional strain and conflict
Better co-parenting relationships moving forward

Mediation is particularly beneficial in Massachusetts, where recent updates to family law, such as the Massachusetts Parentage Act, emphasize inclusivity and equitable outcomes for all families.

Who Can Serve as a Mediator?

A divorce mediator can be an attorney hired jointly by both parties or a specially trained mediator with expertise in family disputes. The key is that they remain neutral throughout the process.

It’s important to understand that if you hire an attorney as your mediator, that attorney cannot later represent either party individually if mediation breaks down. They’ve served in a neutral capacity and cannot switch to advocating for just one side. This neutrality is crucial under Massachusetts law, which ensures that mediators maintain their impartial role.

Is Mediation Right for You?

Mediation works best when both parties:

Are willing to communicate respectfully
Can be transparent about finances
Are committed to finding fair solutions
Prioritize children’s well-being (if applicable)

Even in situations with some conflict, skilled mediators can help bridge communication gaps and find common ground.

Next Steps

If you’re considering divorce, exploring mediation could save you significant time, money, and stress. At the Law Office of Matthew Peterson, we can guide you through the mediation process with compassion and expertise.

Remember that mediation empowers you to shape your own future rather than leaving decisions in the hands of the court. By working together, even during this difficult transition, you can create solutions that respect everyone’s needs and set the foundation for a healthier path forward.