SelfhelpMagazine

Divorce mediation service fees often sound expensive when quoted by the hour. Both attorney mediators and "therapist" mediators usually charge fees which are similar to their fees as attorneys or therapists. The cost of mediation should also be compared to the alternative--the cost of a contested divorce.

Why Divorce Mediation Services Are More Affordable Than Contested Divorce

Contested divorces are usually quite expensive because two lawyers are involved and both are being paid for their time. There is even a subtle incentive for the lawyers to take their time in reaching an agreement, because they are paid more the longer they work. The divorcing partners often feel like they have no control over the process (or the bill) because all discussions are taking place between their attorneys. Keep in mind that the phrase "Have your lawyer call my lawyer" means that both lawyers are going to bill for this call.

Benefits To Divorce Mediation Services

• Mediation is a cooperative process which gives the couple more control over the costs and the outcome.
• The initial session is often discounted or even offered free-of-charge.
• In this session the process of mediation is fully explained, and the fees are fully disclosed.
• An "Agreement to Mediate" is usually signed which outlines everyone's roles, describes the process in detail, and fully discloses the fees and payment arrangements.

If you and your husband can work out your differences without a mediator you will have the most economical divorce. If you cannot, then you should at least consider divorce mediation services as an alternative. It is usually less expensive than paying two lawyers to "battle it out."