For amicable divorces and only the details need to be ironed out. There are mediation services specializing in this very situation. The idea, of course, is to save as much money and headache by essentially “DIY” (doing it yourself). By now, everyone has heard the horror stories of divorces that last years and cost hundreds of thousands in legal fees. Nobody truly wants that. Mediation is common in divorces but can be used in other legal disputes, such as Estate Law.
Mediation Fees
Typically there is a bar set for how much your fees will be. Mediation services in Palm Bay, FL., for example, if you make under $100,000 combined, then the fees for the mediator are about $150/hr. The fees jump to $200/hr if you exceed that amount. This is simply because the case is more complex when it involves more money.
These fees may be slightly lower or even higher in other parts of the country. In wealthy areas like Hollywood, California, you can see $300/hr mediation fees. Or more.
Search for a Mediator
The key is to search around, read the reviews on Google and find the best-certified mediator for your budget. They charge different prices based on their experience, location, and specialty.
What Makes a Mediator?
A mediator has to be certified by the state. This means they have taken the required courses to conduct this formal process properly. In the state of Florida, for example, the law states:
”A minimum of a bachelor’s degree and 100 points are required for first certification as a mediator of family and divorce matters.” It then lists the courses which need to be completed before the state can license you and how each course and requirement adds up to 100 points. Most states have similar requirements.
Who Needs a Mediator
Any couple who feel that they are mostly on the same page as far as dividing possessions is concerned should seek the use of a mediator. But, even if a couple is not on the same page, a mediation session or two will help figure out how much of a divide there is. Sometimes people can be surprised to learn that they are closer in thinking on these matters than originally anticipated.
Availability
There may not be a mediator near you if you are in a tiny town, but chances are there is one in the next town over. This is because there are thousands of mediators in the United States. Here are the current stats:
There were 5,962 people qualified as mediators as of February 2023. The breakdown is as follows according to certification:
- 2,177 certified county mediators
- 2,313 certified family mediators
- 3,441 certified circuit mediators
- 215 certified dependency mediators
- 423 certified appellate mediators
Right for You?
A mediator is right for you if you answer yes to these questions:
- Are you getting a divorce?
- Do you want to avoid a lengthy and costly court battle?
- Is there a chance that your soon-to-be- ex-spouse will be on board with trying mediation?
That’s it! If you answer yes to these questions, then it’s time to start Googling for a qualified and licensed legal mediator near you.