Factors Affecting the Cost of Divorce Mediation

Divorce mediation is a process in which a third party, who is neutral to both involved parties, comes to the table with the two individuals to try and find a way to come to a conclusion. This type of mediation may occur before, during or after divorce, but in all situations, the cost and length of the mediation depend on the circumstances. If you are considering divorce mediation to help resolve some or all of your communication problems, do plan to compare options.

Costs of Mediation

The cost of divorce mediation will range widely. A number of factors can affect what that cost is, but in general, these mediator professionals are paid on hourly wage, based on the contract both parties sign with the professional. Some factors that may play a role in this process include:

• The number of hours the mediator is needed. The longer the mediator has to work with both parties, the more the cost will be. In general, individuals will hire a mediator for a set number of hours from the start of the process.
• The expertise and experience of the mediator plays a role in the cost. Since mediation is still a new field, experienced mediators are highly valuable and will cost more than those who may be new to the industry.
• Location also plays a role in the cost of mediation. Larger cities, such as New York and Los Angeles, will have higher costs than Midwestern cities, for example.

In some cases, individuals will want to consider paying a flat fee for the service. However, it is important to note that such a fee may still be based on a set number of hours, with additional costs extending when the mediation process takes longer. Some companies may also have a fee associated with travel costs, if this is an issue. Many mediators charge by the hour and on an as you go policy, with hourly rates.

Utilize a contract with the mediator to ensure that the details are in writing, before agreeing to work with the organization or person. Divorce mediation can take as short as two hours or as long as 10 hours in some cases. Be sure contracts outline these differences clearly.

Hire an Attorney

In some situations, it is best to hire an attorney to help defend you in divorce proceedings even if you are using divorce mediation. The attorney can ensure that your side of the case is heard and that your needs are met during the process.