Somerset County Divorce Mediators

Different Mediation Methods in New Jersey

Mediation is a general term for Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR). There is more than one type of ADR or mediation.​

The State of New Jersey recognizes several types of ADR, summarized below:

• Arbitration: a neutral third party renders judgment after hearing each argument; judgment may be binding or not if agreed upon beforehand
• Settlement proceedings: settlements are reached by voluntary agreement
• Summary jury trial: a panel of jurors issues non-binding recommendations after hearing arguments
• Early neutral evaluation: the parties’ attorneys present arguments to a neutral third party, who explains strengths and weaknesses of the arguments to help reach a settlement
• Neutral fact finding: used to analyze complex disputes and to make recommendations
• Facilitative process: a neutral party facilitates communication without influencing any decisions

There are also hybrid methods that allow particularly difficult issues to be judged and others mediated.

Your Guide to Divorce Mediation in NJ

While no mediation session will be identical between different spouses, there are a few things to expect during your upcoming session:

• Expect the unexpected: There may be topics or issues that will be surfaced for the first time
• Agree to mediate: Both spouses should want to be at mediation to resolve their issues. If one spouse doesn't take it seriously, then it can seriously hinder the results.
• Set goals and do your homework: Know ahead of time what you wish to accomplish. Read up on the laws and regulations of your state so that you have a better understanding of what you are trying to get across.
• Think about others that are affected by this: Divorce just doesn't affect the spouses, it may have lifelong effects on the children. When resolving any issue, be sure to include what is in the best interests of the children.

What is the Role of a Divorce Mediator in NJ?

The role of the mediator is to be a non-biased and neutral third party initiator of discussion. They assist conversations to help promote the resolutions to common or complex family law or divorce matters. Additionally, a NJ divorce mediator will avoid conflicts of interests and make reasonable inquiries to determine any potential conflicts. Lastly, it is not up to the mediator to finalize solutions, the couple or family involved in the discussions must be able to do so themselves.