Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)

Communications in the mediation process are privileged and confidential as allowed by law. Information received by the mediator from either party, outside the presence of the other, shall remain confidential unless the party consents to the sharing of that information.

Mediation confidentiality supports negotiating in good faith, and in a way that supports both people leaving mutually satisfied. The confidentiality of mediation presumes that, during this process, that one would not discuss the specifics of the settlement agreement with, for instance, family or friends, as they may encourage you to pursue a settlement that they think is fair, rather than what was mutually agreed upon by you and your spouse.

A: A complete mediation process with ADR Divorce Mediation Center usually costs less than the retainer for one attorney, not to mention the cost of two attorneys employed to battle the case out in court. With litigated divorces, costs can go sky high. Each party usually pays their own attorney a retainer of at least $2500, and fees go up from there based on time in consultation, research, discovery, telephone calls, letters, and court time.

Our hourly fee applies to all time spent in meetings, and for extended phone calls. We have a minimum of one two-hour meeting with both parties, and a one-hour review and signing follow-up session. The average mediation takes from about 3-4 hours of mediation. The mediation session fee is paid at the end of each session, and the fee for assisting in the preparation of the documents is paid half before and half after preparation.