San Jose spouses who are going through a divorce might try to work through their differences with divorce mediation. Perhaps, for example, you and your spouse are at an impasse in a custody disagreement with your child. It looks like you may need to take the matter to court, but you know that it would be easier of your family if you could reach an out-of-court settlement.
A skilled mediator can help you and spouse negotiate and reach accord. If the mediation fails, then it may be necessary to defend your parental rights in court, but if the mediation works, it will be worth the time and cost.
How much time and how much money does mediation cost?
Mediation proceedings will last a longer amount of time when the issues involved are more complicated and numerous. The length of time will also depend on the ability of you and your spouse to arrive at an agreement, and the skill of the mediator.
With this in mind, mediation proceedings can usually be completed for California divorcees within four to ten sessions. If a great deal of animosity exists between the spouses, and one spouse refuses to budge in his or her position, then the process could drag on or even be rendered a failure and lead to court litigation.
On average, divorce mediators charge between $100 and $300 per hour, but the more skilled the mediator is — and the better reputation he or she has for efficiently resolving disputes — the more expensive he or she is. Some mediators charge as much as $1,000 per hour. When they’re very good, the extra cost could be worth it financially, but it depends on the situation.
Consider carefully if mediation is right for you
California divorcees will want to evaluate whether mediating their child custody disagreements will be worth it, or whether it will be a waste of time and money. If your spouse is being extremely difficult and inflexible, the wisest course of action might be to go directly to trial.