Mediation is a voluntary, problem-solving process, available to assist divorcing couples work out a mutual  agreement on the issues which must usually be resolved in any divorce such as parenting, support, and division  of property.

 Mediation is for couples who have made a decision to divorce or who are unsure whether to divorce, but want a  separation. It is also for couples who are already divorced but who have a post-decree dispute.

 Mediation is not only for couples who agree. It is a process designed to help any couple regardless of existing  differences. Mediation works like this. With the assistance of a trained neutral third party (a mediator), the couple  works to identify, negotiate, and resolve in a fair way the issues raised by the decision to divorce. When those  issues have been resolved, the mediator will draft a memorandum of agreement. This is reviewed by the couple  and given to their attorneys for legal implementation. An attorney will then draw up a formal settlement  agreement. The divorce may then go through the courts as an uncontested matter.

 Mediation varies in length depending on the agenda, the complexity of the issues involved and the readiness of  the couple to resolve these issues. However, the average mediation usually takes about five two-hour sessions.

 Each client is urged to seek legal representation during the mediation process. While the decisions reached in  mediation are made by the divorcing individuals, we believe that each person should have available to them an  attorney with whom they can confer should they so feel the need.

 The results of a comprehensive study of divorce mediation were published in an article entitled "Divorce  Mediation" which was authored by Pearson and Thoennes and which appeared in the1982 issue of FAMILY  ADVOCATE. Two of their findings were as follows:

 "The research indicates that mediation is the more desirable way for couples to resolve contested child
 custody disputes."

 "They also report much satisfaction with the process."

 "Successful mediation clients are less likely to report problems with their court orders and are more likely to  report that their spouses are in total compliance."

 "The benefits of mediation clearly outweigh the costs."

 "Mediated agreements were viewed more favorable than stipulations arrived at through the adversarial  system...Apparently, the method by which an agreement was reached was critical. The mediation process  generated a sense of equality not felt elsewhere."

 Our article on divorce mediation appeared in the October, 1989 issue of NEW WOMAN. The author,  professional mediator Diane Neumann of Boston, Massachusetts, found that the mediation process provided  the following advantages:

 "Mediation allows each party to hear and respond to the other side of an issue."

 "Mediation promotes the best interests of the children."

 "Mediation saves time and money. "

 "Mediation avoids the public display of private issues."

 If you wish to set an appointment with a mediator or if you would like more information about divorce mediation,  please feel free to call the Dearborn Mediation Center at 313-561-5700 or the Birmingham Mediation Center at  248-952-1700.

 Charles L. Nichols
 Attorney, Executive Director, Mediator