Name changes are included in the package purchased from the court house. Name change is an option. There is no additional charge for changing your name if done during the final divorce stage with the courts. Name changes require personal appearance.

If someone decides to change a name after the divorce that would be a separate petition.

The Settlement Agreement and Parenting Plan are the final deliverables. Next you must purchase a package for divorce at the courthouse. Fill out the forms and file the petition for divorce without an attorney.

Only the petitioner appears for a final hearing where the judge signs a final judgement of the dissolution of marriage. No attorney is necessary. Mediators cannot file papers or appear with them in front of the judge.

You do not pay for 2 lawyers, only one mediator. Mediation allows for the minimum of court intervention.

Mediation is confidential. Should you choose divorce after attempting mediation, no information conveyed during the mediation can be divulged in court. Both parties sign a disclaimer that they understand how the process works.

A Family Mediator is a facilitator that acts as a neutral party. They do not represent either party. Both parties are always present. They dictate their goals to the mediator. A mediator asks questions and provides options without giving legal advice. The mediator prepares the agreement.

Mediation is less expensive than divorce. With mediation, you do not retain a lawyer. Mediation allows the both of you to make important decisions instead of leaving it up to a judge.

If you and your spouse can work together. If you both make decisions based on the best interest of the children and are committed to maintain that relationship for the children you are good candidates for Family Mediation.