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New York Domestic Relations Law Spring 2023
Resource 3 . 3 . 2
1 minute

Mediation Timeline

Joy Rosenthal

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mediation Process

 

1.     STAGE ONE: Mediation meetings – mediator is neutral 

a.     Usually 4-8 meetings, each 1 ½ - 2 hours, spread out over time. 

b.     Plan topics to be discussed, gather information needed to make informed decisions, explore options, make decisions together. 

c.     May use financial neutrals, child specialists, divorce coaches, consulting attorneys. 

 

 

2.     STAGE TWO:  Drafting of Separation Agreement – neutral attorney-mediator 

a.     Usually takes several weeks for first draft.

b.     Drafting attorney drafts a formal, written agreement based on the understandings reached in mediation (Stage One).

c.     Clients review and make comments/changes.

d.     May take several drafts before every detail is agreed upon.

e.     Clients take agreement to reviewing attorneys, who go over it in detail and provide each client with independent review and legal advice.

 

3.     STAGE THREE:  Divorce papers/Court filing – mediator or one of the reviewing attorneys

a.     We prepare the papers necessary for filing the divorce in New York State courts, incorporating terms agreed upon in mediation, consistent with agreement.

b.     Signing.

c.     Court will usually take 3-6 months to process.

d.     We send court-certified copy of judgment of divorce to both parties.

 

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