Divorce Mediation at Jewish Family Service is a unique process in which an impartial, non- judgmental mediator assists individuals in reaching agreements regarding a number of very important issues. These issues include the division of assets and liabilities, the custody of minor children, financial support of the minor children, parenting plans, and spousal support.
Divorce mediation at JFS:
- Is conducted by a trained therapist and State of Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator
- Leaves decision making to the parties involved.
- Is professional, private and confidential
- Is conducted in a timely manner and therefore costs less than a traditional divorce proceeding.
- Is non-adversarial and encourages direct communication and cooperation between the parties.
- Is always conducted in a caring and respectful manner
- Is conducted in an informal and comfortable environment.
Frequently asked questions about Mediation:
How does this process work? Is it court ordered?
Mediation does not have to be court ordered. Parties that are interested in mediation can choose for themselves where they want to go. At Jewish Family Service we provide a safe, trustworthy and non-adversarial environment. Our clinicians are well trained with Marital and Family Counseling.
Why come to mediation? What other benefits are there?
Mediation creates an informal atmosphere for both individuals to discuss any issues in a relaxed and private manner. In a courtroom, the atmosphere is formal, public and often times intimidating. With mediation, both individuals are directly involved in making the decisions that could affect yourselves or your children’s lives. Mediation is more cost efficient. When dealing with an attorney their fees are usually higher, the process can take longer and the nature is adversarial opposed to collaborative.
How does someone come to mediation?
In the absence of an attorney, a couple may employ a paralegal to file the divorce. In this case, they are required to go to choose a mediator. If the parties cannot come to an agreement, a judge can and will make the decisions no matter what the parties really want.
Is the mediator’s decision final?
The mediator’s decision is not final, both parties must reach an agreement. Once the agreement is signed by both parties, it can be brought to court and put into the divorce settlement.
Does the mediator go before the judge?
Mediators do not usually go before a judge. The parties bring the mediation documents before the judge who asks if they are in agreement.
What are the fees? How long does the process take?
The fee is $150 per hour. The number of hours that parties will need depend on their individual situation. Several two hour meetings are average. Opposed to individually paying attorney’s hourly fees, mediation allows the couple to splits the hourly mediation cost.
What are the hours of operation?
Mediation sessions are conducted by appointment only and times are subject to availability, Monday through Friday.
Issues addressed in the mediation process
How will we continue to provide a nurturing and loving environment for our children?
How will we continue to financially support our children?
Who will the children primarily live with?
How will we divide personal property, investments and cash that may have accumulated?
Who is responsible for the debt?
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