Unless you have a signed agreement, you must complete mediation. You and your partner must agree on a certified family court mediator in your area. Certified mediators are usually attorneys or retired judges. They charge by the hour for their services, and you will be required to pay for half. Lawyers and judges are great mediators but are costly. Some mediation centers around the state offer low cost or sliding scale mediations.
During mediation, you will be in a separate room from the other party and will not be required to speak directly to them at any time. The mediation process typically lasts between two to four hours. At the conclusion of the session, you will receive official paperwork, which will either be a signed agreement or a statement of participation. This document must be presented to the judge at your Final Hearing as part of the court process.
