FAQs
What is Divorce Mediation?
Divorce mediation is a process where you and your spouse work with a neutral mediator to resolve issues like finances, property division, and parenting plans. Unlike going to court, mediation focuses on collaboration and finding solutions that work for your family.
How is divorce mediation different from hiring a divorce lawyer?
Litigation often leads to long, expensive, and stressful court battles. Mediation is faster, more cost-effective, and gives you both a say in the outcome. As your mediator, I do not represent either side but guide you toward fair agreements that can be filed with the court.
Is divorce mediation legally binding in New York?
Yes. Once you reach an agreement in mediation, it can be drafted into a legally binding settlement that is submitted to the court for approval.
Who should consider divorce mediation?
Mediation is ideal for couples who:
Want to avoid court battles and the cost associated with them
Are willing to communicate and compromise
Want to protect their children from conflict
Prefer a private and less stressful process.
How long does divorce mediation take?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your situation. Many couples reach an agreement in just a few sessions, while others may take a few months. Mediation is almost always faster than traditional divorce litigation.
How much does divorce mediation cost?
Mediation is significantly more affordable than litigation. Most couples complete their entire process through the Full Mediation Package ($3,500), which includes up to three 2-hour sessions, a written agreement, and guidance on next steps for filing.
For couples who are just beginning or want to address a few focused issues, I also offer a Peaceful Start Package ($995) to help you begin the process or work through specific topics.
At your consultation, I’ll explain which package best fits your needs and provide a clear overview of costs — no surprises or hidden fees.
What if we can’t agree on everything in mediation?
Even if you don’t resolve every issue, mediation can still narrow down disagreements and reduce the time spent in court. Many couples find that once the hardest topics are settled, the rest becomes easier.
Can divorce mediation work if we don’t get along?
Yes. Many couples in mediation are not on good terms, but the process provides structure and guidance to keep discussions productive. As your mediator, I help keep communication respectful and focused on solutions.
Do I need a lawyer if I use a mediator?
A mediator is not the same as legal representation. Some clients choose to review their final agreement with a lawyer before filing, but mediation allows you to complete most of the process without going to court or hiring multiple attorneys.
What areas do you serve?
I provide divorce mediation for families across Long Island, including Suffolk County and Nassau County. Remote/virtual mediation sessions are also available for convenience and for families located elsewhere.
How do I get started with divorce mediation?
Simply contact my office to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your situation, explain the process, and answer any questions so you can move forward with confidence.
What does a consulting attorney help with during mediation?
A consulting attorney is someone you can talk to on the side when you want a clearer understanding of what’s being discussed in mediation. They don’t run the case or take over the conversation. They simply explain things, answer questions, and make sure you feel comfortable with the choices in front of you.
Is this the same as hiring a lawyer to handle my divorce?
Not at all. When you bring in a consulting attorney, you’re not shifting into litigation. You’re still staying in mediation. The attorney is there only to give you private guidance, not to start a court fight or represent you against the other person.
Do both of us need our own consulting attorney?
Some couples choose to each speak with their own attorney, and others don’t use one at all. It depends on how much reassurance you want. There’s no rule here, just what makes you feel informed and comfortable.
When should I think about talking to a consulting attorney?
People usually reach out when something feels confusing or when they’re reviewing a draft and want a second set of eyes. You can talk to an attorney at any stage: early on or right before finalizing anything. It’s simply backup support whenever you need it.
Will involving a consulting attorney slow things down?
It usually helps things move more smoothly. When someone understands the terms clearly, there’s less hesitation and fewer misunderstandings during mediation. Think of it as clarity that keeps the process moving, not something that creates delays.
What can a prenup actually cover?
Most couples use a prenup to talk about money, property, or things they want to keep clear before the wedding, but there’s no set list you must follow. Some people bring up family obligations, others talk about savings habits, and a few simply use it to make sure they’re starting their marriage on the same page. The conversation usually guides the content, not the other way around.
When should we begin the prenup conversation?
Usually, earlier is better, not because it’s complicated, but because it’s easier to talk about these things when you’re not rushing. Many couples start the discussion once their wedding planning is underway, but before things get hectic. It gives both people room to think and breathe a little.
How does the process work at Catalyst Mediation?
It’s pretty simple. You both sit down, explain what you want to sort through, and the mediator helps keep the conversation steady and constructive. Once you’ve covered the important points, the mediator puts everything into a written summary so you can review it together and make sure it reflects what you actually talked about.
Can mediation help with anything besides prenups?
Yes. Some couples come in wanting to outline how they’ll manage certain responsibilities, or to create a plan for shared finances, or even to clarify expectations before blending families. The documents vary a lot because they’re based entirely on the conversations that happen in the room.
Do we need our own attorneys if we use mediation?
You don’t have to, but some people feel better having someone look things over afterward. A consulting attorney can answer private legal questions or give you reassurance before you sign anything. It’s mainly there for peace of mind, not to replace the mediation process.
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