Question 1

Can we attend mediation if we already agree about some aspects of our divorce?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In the intake paperwork that you will fill out you can indicate the scope of the help that you want. If it is management of only one aspect of your divorce we will limit our scope there. We can cover as many or as few topics as you'd like so that you only get help where you need it.

Question 2

What if we only need help creating a court-ready parenting plan for approval?

Accepted Answer

Even couples who plan to file for divorce independently often seek help developing a parenting plan. We can use our time together to create a parenting plan that will meet the requirements for the state of Montana and will be ready to file with the court when you are ready.

Question 3

Do both parties need to attend mediation sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mediation is a process that can only take place if both partners in a couple agree to the process and are present.We can conduct mediation sessions in person or online. There are advantages to either approach. However, we do require that all parties be in the same modality (we will either all gather in a room together, or we will all participate online).

Question 4

How long does mediation take?

Accepted Answer

We schedule mediation sessions in a two-hour block. For those who need assistance working through only a few issues we can often meet your goals in coming to agreement in just one or two sessions. For more complex or more conflictual cases we anticipate between 2-5 sessions to reach agreement.

Question 5

Is mediation legally binding?

Accepted Answer

The agreements that are made through the mediation process become legally binding when they are filed with the court and approved by a judge.

Question 6

How much does mediation cost?

Accepted Answer

Mediation costs $500 per session (each session is booked for two hours). The total number of sessions you will need depends on the complexity of your case, the level of conflict you and your partner have, and your communication patterns. Most couples need between 2-4 sessions to come to agreement.Our main role in mediation is to help you and your partner communicate. in ways that lead you to understanding and agreement on major decisions regarding your divorce. The agreements we come to in mediation will be yours to document as you wish. If you would like to write these decisions up together to submit to the court you will only be billed for the cost of the sessions. Your mediator will be experienced in creating court documents and mediation agreements. If you would like them to write up the formal settlement terms in a document that is ready to file with the court they can do so for an additional $200/hr fee. The length of time the document construction takes will be related to the complexity of your mediation case.

Question 7

Can I use my health insurance to cover divorce mediation?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, even though your mediator is a licensed mental health practitioner, the service being offered through mediation is considered a legal rather than health expense, and is not eligible coverage by health insurance.

Question 8

Can I use FSA/HSA funds to cover mediation?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, even though your mediator is a licensed mental health practitioner, the service being offered through mediation is considered a legal rather than health expense, and is not eligible for FSA/HSA fund use.

Mediation and Parenting Plans

Frequently asked questions