FAQs
Mediation can be a great alternative in most divorce situations as long as both parties are willing to sit down and discuss the issues to be resolved. Mediation is not appropriate when there is domestic abuse, as it is a complicated issue with a significant imbalance of power.
Yes, confidentiality is one of the key benefits of mediation. The discussions that take place during our mediation sessions cannot be disclosed in court.
Each case is different, both in complexity and communication, which directly impacts the number of sessions required. I conduct two-hour mediation sessions and clients typically need three to six meetings.
Yes, resolving custody, visitation and child support arrangements are all part of divorce mediation. Clients typically spend one to two meetings, 2-hours each, focused solely on creating the parenting plan for their child/ren.
Whether you are just exploring the possibility of divorce individually, or you or your spouse have already started the process by retaining an attorney, my settlement analysis services will provide you with options for moving forward as well as possible financial division settlements for your consideration.
I’ll make sure you understand both the short-term and long-term financial impact of different settlement proposals so you can develop a realistic picture of your new lifestyle before making any final decisions.
Expenses related to divorce can seem high, but the reality is that including a divorce financial analyst is more likely to save you money, both now and in the long-term. The decisions you make now cannot be undone, so it is important to understand your options and have the guidance needed to make good choices. Fees for mediation and financial analysis are very reasonable as compared to attorney representation, and I offer both hourly and flat-fee services. Previous clients have commented that it’s been a great investment, saving them not only money, but time and frustration down the road.
In my experience, clients who believe they have a relatively simple divorce still benefit significantly from my services. Even when mediation is not necessary, a brief one- or two-hour review of the divorce settlement you are considering may uncover a potential mistake or an opportunity for a better strategy. Please contact me for a free consultation so we can discuss your situation.
A mediator’s role is to remain neutral and help you reach your own agreements. However, mediators cannot provide legal advice so you are encouraged to have your agreement reviewed by your own independent counsel prior to signing.
There is a natural division of labor that occurs with most couples, and handling the household finances is often one of those tasks. If you are working with Financial Harmony independently from your spouse, we’ll discuss the financial information you need to gather and talk about ways to obtain it.
For those mediating, the sharing of information is key and there will be a financial due diligence process. Financial issues will be explained to be sure both parties fully understand them before making any decisions.
If you intend to divide a qualified retirement plan, you may be aware that a QDRO will be required. Our mediation team includes attorneys who can prepare these documents for you.
Handling the division of business assets, deferred compensation plans and other complex assets is what I do for my clients on a daily basis. We’ll discuss the various options you have for dividing each asset and determine what makes the most sense for your particular situation.
Yes, whether you are already in agreement about post-divorce modifications or need to mediate in order to reach your new agreements, Financial Harmony can provide this service.
Yes, I provide all of the same services for those seeking to end same-sex marriages.
Yes, parties who have signed a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement may use mediation and/or divorce financial planning services. Even when both parties agree to the pre-or postnuptial agreement terms, there are still child-related and administrative details to be worked out.
I always offer new clients a half-hour consultation at no charge. Please call or email me today so we can schedule a time to discuss your options.