Family mediation is becoming favored in divorce proceedings. Divorce mediation allows each party to voice their wishes and be involved in the outcome of the divorce. Divorce can be an emotional time, and mediation can be very empowering for parties to a divorce because they are ultimately the deciders on their own personal matters.
This article will discuss what to expect in Iowa Divorce Mediation. We cover the following questions:
- What is mediation in divorce, and how does it work?
- What does divorce mediation in Iowa cost?
- Do I need a lawyer for divorce mediation in Iowa?
- What are the steps to divorce mediation in Iowa?
- How do I start the divorce mediation process in Iowa?
- Where do I go to start my divorce mediation in Iowa?
- What can I expect at my first divorce mediation session?
- What do I bring to a divorce mediation?
For more information about Family Mediation, please visit our other article.
What Is Mediation In Divorce, And How Does It Work?
In divorce mediation, spouses meet with a neutral third party, called a mediator, to reach an agreement on the divorce issues. The mediator listens to both sides and tries to guide the parties to mutually acceptable resolutions. If the parties reach an agreement, the mediator will write up the proposed agreement, and both parties will sign. The judge will then give the agreement to be entered into the court.
If mediation does not work, then contested issues will be heard by the judge in a trial or hearing.
What Does Divorce Mediation In Iowa Cost?
Mediators charge fees ranging from $100 to $400 per hour. Some mediation includes administrative fees as well.
Do I Need A Lawyer For Divorce Mediation In Iowa?
Hiring an attorney is not required to participate in mediation; however, it can only benefit you to hire one. Mediators cannot give legal advice, so it could be helpful to meet with an attorney before mediation so they can prepare you. An attorney can also guide you in preparing your goals and what outcome you seek from the mediation. Lastly, an attorney can assist you in choosing a mediator and setting the mediation up.
What Are The Steps To Divorce Mediation In Iowa?
- Initiate Mediation
- Find a mediator or get one appointed
- Meet with a Family Law Attorney
- Attend Mediation
- Joint Meeting with Mediator
- Negotiate
- Sign an agreement
- Enter agreement in the court
How Do I Start The Divorce Mediation Process In Iowa?
You can start mediation voluntarily before filing a divorce by hiring a mediator, giving notice to the other party, and setting up mediation in a neutral location.
Mediation could also be court-ordered. Once you file a divorce petition, a hearing will be docketed, and the court may order the parties to mediation. The parties can request a list of mediators.
Where Do I Go To Start My Divorce Mediation In Iowa?
You can call an Iowa Divorce Attorney, and the attorney can help coordinate mediation with or without the court being involved. You can also file a Petition for Divorce and ask the judge to order mediation.
What Can I Expect At My First Divorce Mediation Session?
Mediators typically start mediations with an opening statement to provide the rules and goals of the mediation. Everyone may be in the same room, but spouses may ask to speak to the mediator privately. Some parties with specific circumstances, like violence, can participate in mediation separately. Some mediation occurs in separate rooms, and the mediator goes back and forth between rooms.
The mediator and spouses will discuss the divorce’s terms and resolutions for all outstanding issues. Some people only need one session, so be sure to bring all the documents for each divorce issue in your case and prepare to work through them all during the meeting. You may each bring your attorney to the mediation.
What Do I Bring To A Divorce Mediation?
Iowa divorce mediation checklist
- Schedule, calendars, or day planners
- Information regarding divorce issues including, but not limited to,
- Marital assets
- Real Estate
- Bank statements
- Paystubs
- Tax Documents
- Insurance policies
- Debts
- Any personal property, including vehicles
- If children, children’s schedules, medical information, and educational documents
- A list of your goals
- Other documents your attorney suggests depending on your case
If you need help setting up a mediation or want an Iowa O’Flaherty Law Attorney to be by your side through the process, please reach out to us. To request a consultation with an Iowa Family Law Lawyer, call our office at (630) 324-6666. You can also fill out our confidential contact form, and we will get back to you shortly.
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