How Do I Find A Divorce Mediator?

Finding a good divorce mediator is a lot like hiring any other professional. You want someone who is competent and experienced, but you also want to make sure that this person understands your situation and goals. What makes this process more difficult than simply hiring a lawyer or paralegal is that you want to find someone that can both understand both sides but will also help come to an amicable resolution for both parties.

Find a mediator with experience

When looking for a divorce mediator, it is important to find one who has experience. When you go to your first meeting, the mediator should be able to explain how they work and what they do. If they do not seem confident or experienced enough with mediation, you may want to look at other options.

Consider your budget

The cost of the mediator depends on their experience and the complexity of your case. Mediators charge a fee, and it may be split between you and your spouse if both parties agree to this arrangement. You should also consider how much money you can afford to spend on legal fees in general. Mediation can be more cost-effective than litigation but considering a budget ahead of time will help you pick the best mediator for you.

In spite of these considerations about money, however, it’s important not to let finances get in the way of choosing someone who best fits your needs as individuals. While some couples may prefer paying less per hour than others would like paying more per hour—and vice versa—the best choice for one person might not necessarily be ideal for another couple going through similar circumstances but with different backgrounds or perspectives on life.

Understand what the mediator does, and does not do

In Northern Virginia, divorce mediation expedites the divorce process. The minimal investment of time, money, and emotional energy creates an environment beneficial to both parties. Our divorce attorneys approach mediation with one goal in mind—to reach a binding settlement of the marital issues in dispute through open discussion and the exchange of information. It’s our job to facilitate communication and cooperation for both parties, not to be judgmental or biased.

While our mediators are divorce lawyers and licensed family law attorneys when acting as a divorce mediator they cannot offer any legal advice or act as either party’s legal counsel at any point during the divorce process. As mediators, our goal is to keep the discussion focused, open lines of communication, and coach both parties through the decision-making process through facilitation and evaluative mediation styles.

Ask for referrals from other trusted professionals

You should also ask for referrals from other trusted professionals. If you’re already working with a lawyer or therapist, they can recommend a mediator who has experience in the area of divorce. Your lawyer and therapist will probably have a good sense of who has the experience and expertise that you need, and they may have dealt with some difficult situations themselves.

Check professional directories and reviews to find a mediator

You can also find a mediator by checking professional directories and reviews.

Looking online at reviews for divorce mediators near you is a great starting point. You will want to look for someone with years of experience and positive reviews from clients.

You can also check the directories for mediators. Most states have a directory of mediators in their area that may be available to help you find one for your situation.

Look for someone who is local

Look for someone who is local. Local mediators are more likely to be familiar with the area where you live, as well as the laws in your county, state, and country. They’ll also be available when you need them, which makes their availability easier to predict and schedule around if necessary. Also, when considering a local mediator, consider someone with a professional office you can visit and ensure that this will be a professional experience that achieves the results you both want and deserve.

Divorce Mediator in Northern Virginia

We hope this has helped you to find the right divorce mediator for your needs. We also encourage you to seek out referrals from trusted professionals who have experience with divorce mediation, as well as check professional directories and reviews carefully before making a decision. This can help ensure that you’ll find someone who has the experience and knowledge necessary to handle your case successfully.

To talk with a divorce mediator in Northern Virginia, including Arlington County, Fairfax County, Fauquier County, Loudoun County, or Prince William County, call Graham Law Firm, PLLC at (703) 443-9360 or contact us online to schedule a family law consultation.