A practical, step-by-step guide to resolving parenting, property and financial disputes without going straight to court.
Frequently asked questions
Is divorce mediation legally binding?
The mediated agreement itself usually isn’t automatically binding. It becomes enforceable once it is reviewed, formalised and, where required, approved by a court or turned into a signed legal agreement by your lawyers.
Do we need lawyers if we’re mediating?
You don’t need a lawyer present in the room, but it’s strongly recommended that each person has independent legal advice before signing anything, so you understand your rights and the agreement holds up later.
What if we can’t agree on everything?
That’s common. Mediation can resolve some issues and leave others for further negotiation or court. A partial agreement still narrows what has to be formally decided elsewhere.
Is mediation appropriate if there was abuse in the relationship?
Not always. A good mediator screens for this during intake and may recommend an alternative process where there is a power imbalance, safety concern, or history of coercive control.
How much does divorce mediation cost compared to court?
Costs vary by mediator and number of sessions, but mediation is typically a fraction of the cost of a fully litigated divorce, largely because it takes far fewer hours of paid professional time.
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