Who Can Benefit From Divorce and Family Law Mediation?

Mediation isn’t just for couples who agree on everything — in fact, many spouses choose mediation precisely because they don’t agree. The process is designed to help families communicate, problem-solve, and make informed decisions about their future without turning private matters into public litigation.

Spouses Seeking a More Peaceful Divorce

Mediation is ideal for couples who want to:

• Avoid adversarial courtroom proceedings
• Maintain respect and privacy
• Protect their children from conflict
• Keep control over the outcome instead of handing decisions to a judge

Spouses With Property or Financial Considerations

Mediation is particularly useful in divorce matters involving:

• Community property partition
• Household debt allocation
• Retirement accounts
• Family businesses
• Reimbursements or claims
• Spousal support (temporary or final)

A neutral mediator helps clarify financial questions and explore middle-ground solutions.

Parents Focused on Co-Parenting

Co-parenting works best when communication remains respectful. Mediation helps parents work through:

• Custody schedules
• Holidays and school breaks
• Co-parent responsibilities
• Child support and expenses
• Future decision-making (schools, activities, healthcare, etc.)

Parents are more likely to abide by agreements they create themselves rather than those imposed by the court.

Families Seeking Efficiency and Cost Savings

Traditional divorce can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Mediation often costs a fraction, with spouses sharing one mediator instead of hiring lawyers to litigate for months or years.

People Who Are “Mostly on the Same Page”

Some spouses arrive with a near-complete agreement and need help polishing terms, preparing documents, or filing with the court. Others come in with only a few unresolved issues.

If You Think Mediation Might Work for Your Family

Johnston Burkhardt practices family law and is a registered Child Custody and Visitation Mediator. To determine whether mediation is a fit for your circumstances, contact Johnston for a free consultation at johnston@snw.lawor (504) 324-2141.