You can start mediation at any point before or after separation, whether you are in the middle of court proceedings or have just begun to consider divorce and don't intend to "go to court."

As you consider your options, I invite you to:

• Request an information packet about mediation to share with your spouse
• Call us at 505-982-2624 for a free consultation on your particular situation
• Schedule a half-hour consultation for you and your spouse in our office

We have office locations in Los Alamos and Santa Fe for your convenience, and offer evening and daytime appointments.

Initial Session

The first mediation session is an opportunity for you and your spouse/partner to meet the mediator(s), ask your questions about the mediation process, and decide if mediation is right for you. Up to the first 1/2 hour of this session is a free consultation to help you make this important decision. If you choose to continue, the mediator will ask you to sign a mediation contract and mediation will begin in earnest.

The first session includes an explanation of the divorce process, including divorce filing and time-lines in the District Court of appropriate jurisdiction. Specific interim agreements regarding finances, living arrangements and child schedules (if applicable) will be addressed in the first session.

The length of a mediation session is typically two hours. Appointments are typically scheduled every two weeks, allowing you time to gather necessary information, consult with professionals of your own choosing, and accomplish any other necessary steps that are outlined at the end of each mediation session. Clients may communicate with the mediator between sessions via telephone, e-mail or written correspondence.

Your mediator obtains all pertinent information and provides a specific list of financial documents required for the process known as "legal discovery."