Common Questions
What is mediation?
Mediation is a guided conversation where a neutral person (the mediator) helps people solve problems and agree on solutions. Instead of a judge deciding, both sides work together to find a fair and practical outcome that works for them.
How is mediation different then going to court?
Mediation is a private and voluntary process where people work together to find solutions, instead of going to court. Court can be expensive, stressful, and public, with a judge making the FINAL decision.
Many people turn to mediation even after filing a court case because it’s faster, cheaper, and allows them to stay in control of the outcome. Courts even encourage mediation in many cases.
How much does it cost?
Our divorce mediation services are billed at $150 per hour. Most mediations take between 6 to 10 hours, depending on the situation.
In addition to mediation costs, couples should budget $250 (without minor children) or $252 (with minor children) for New Hampshire filing fees and $85 for the Child Impact Class if required.
How long does it take?
It depends on the complexity of the situation, but most mediations take between one to three sessions, each lasting about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Court cases can drag on for months or even years, while mediation can often resolve issues in just a few sessions.
Do I need a lawyer?
No, you don’t need a lawyer to participate in mediation. However, some people choose to consult a lawyer before or after mediation to review agreements. Mediation itself is designed to be simple and accessible without requiring legal representation.
Can mediators help if the other person is being uncooperative?
Yes! Mediators are trained to handle high-conflict situations and ensure both parties are heard. However, mediation requires a willingness to engage in conversation if one person refuses, other options may need to be considered.
Even partial agreements can be helpful and reduce future conflict. If needed, unresolved issues can be handled in other ways, like legal consultation or additional mediation sessions.