Getting divorced can be both emotionally exhausting and financially devastating. Couples may consider mediation as one method to transverse through the dissolution of their marriage with less acrimony and potentially at lower cost to the divorcing couple.

We often attempt to resolve divorce cases through mediation and in most cases we achieve that goal. Generally, there are strategies that help increase the probability of not only a successful mediated resolution but also a fair result.

Prior to commencing the mediation, there needs to be complete disclosure of all relevant information. Some assets may need to be valued or appraised by independent third parties having the proper expertise. Any appraisals or valuation reports need to be disclosed and exchanged and in some cases having the valuation or appraisal completed by an independent third party prior to the mediation is extremely helpful. Both parties need to agree on certain components of the valuation methodology or each party should obtain his or her own independent valuation.