Divorce and Family Mediation
A Smoother Path to Resolution
Divorce mediation is a structured process where a neutral third party helps couples resolve issues related to their divorce. Unlike litigation, mediation encourages collaboration, allowing couples to make informed decisions about their future.
There are different styles of mediation, from purely facilitative to more directive approaches. At Amherst Mediation Services, we focus on guiding productive discussions while ensuring both parties have the legal and financial information needed to make sound decisions.
What is Divorce Mediation?
Why Choose Mediation?
Mediation offers several advantages over traditional divorce litigation:
✔ More Control
Couples set the pace and outcome rather than relying on the court’s schedule.
✔ Lower Costs
Mediation is far more affordable than litigation, which involves expensive attorney fees and court costs.
✔ Less Stress
The process encourages cooperation rather than confrontation, reducing emotional strain.
✔ Privacy
Mediation takes place behind closed doors rather than in a public courtroom.
✔ Better Communication
It fosters problem-solving and respect, especially important when children are involved.
Unlike litigation, mediation doesn’t create winners and losers—its goal is to reach fair, mutually agreeable solutions.
The Amherst Mediation Approach
With over 30 years of experience and hundreds of successful mediations, Amherst Mediation Services is committed to helping couples navigate divorce efficiently, affordably, and with minimal stress.
If you're considering mediation, call 413-256-1575 or Contact Us to schedule your consultation.
What to Expect at Amherst Mediation Services
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One party reaches out via phone or email to learn more about the process.
To maintain neutrality, both parties are included in all communications.
A free initial consultation is scheduled, either in person or via Zoom.
During the consultation (15-30 minutes), the mediation process is explained, and questions are answered.
If both parties wish to proceed, a mediation agreement is signed, and sessions begin.
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Gather key details (marriage date, children’s names, financial overview).
Discuss areas of agreement and unresolved issues.
Review court-required financial statements and assign homework to gather necessary information.
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Mediation typically takes 3-5 sessions, depending on the complexity of finances, parenting plans, and emotional dynamics.
Couples work through issues such as:
Division of assets and debts
Child custody and parenting plans
Spousal and child support
Health insurance and retirement plans
Sessions are scheduled at the couple’s pace—some need time to process, while others move quickly.
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Once all major issues are resolved, a draft agreement is prepared.
Clients are strongly encouraged to have independent attorneys review the agreement before signing.
The final divorce agreement is filed with the court.
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If clients are not using attorneys, they receive a filing packet with all necessary court forms and step-by-step instructions.
A final meeting ensures all paperwork is complete and that clients understand the next steps in the court process.
Why Involve an Attorney?
While mediation is designed to minimize legal battles, having an attorney for consultation is highly recommended. A lawyer can:
Review the proposed agreement to ensure fairness.
Provide legal advice (which the mediator cannot do).
Suggest revisions before finalizing the divorce.
Consulting a lawyer does not mean returning to litigation—it ensures both parties fully understand their rights and responsibilities.
Schedule your Free Consultation
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