New Jersey’s Dispute Resolution Options, Part 1: Divorce Mediation

If you find yourself in the middle of a divorce, it’s crucial to know what your options are. Thankfully, NJ attorneys will tell their clients about Complementary Dispute Resolution (CDR) programs upfront in order to keep the number of cases to a minimum. It’s helpful to explain the settlement process and differentiate between negotiation, mediation, and arbitration during this time. Here is an explanation of the first: divorce mediation.

Divorce Mediation in NJ

Many attorneys, psychologists and social professionals have picked up on the national trend of divorce mediation.  For a fee, usually paid by both parties in advance, the NJ divorce mediator will gather information, obtain positions from each side and will facilitate the parties in reaching their own agreement.

From there, the mediation process begins. If the parties agree on a settlement, the mediator then drafts a memorandum of understanding. Each party is then advised to keep separate counsel to review the proposal and draft a formal agreement in light of the legal and tax ramifications.