Clients are free to choose any attorney they want to review their mediated agreement—there’s no requirement to select a “mediation-friendly” attorney. However, if clients are truly committed to the terms they reached, no attorney should sway them from those choices; if they aren’t completely committed, the mediator will want to address that before anything is signed. The language of a separation agreement matters.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

I’ve been lucky to enjoy a positive relationship with my blended family—but it didn’t happen by accident. In this video, I explain why mediation and other collaborative processes give separating parents the best chance at a calm, respectful future together.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

Sometimes people want to start mediation but worry their spouse won’t agree. Asking the spouse to attend a consultation instead is one way to at least get the idea out there and learn about it. The consultation enables both parties to ask questions and clarify any misconceptions, and often helps open hesitant people to the concept of mediation. 

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — www.ClarePiroMediation.com.

Worried your co-parenting will be as rocky as your marriage? Consider these steps:1. Mediate first – less conflict, smoother post-divorce relationship; 2. Take parent education classes to learn skills that support your kids. 3. Consider a parenting coordinator – get help with real-time issues. Taking small steps now leads to better co-parenting later. For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

In mediation, unlike in court, the focus isn’t just on what the law provides but on finding solutions that meet everyone’s needs and serve the best interests of the children. While understanding the law is important, strictly applying it may not lead to the best outcomes. Clients often want to rely on the law only when it benefits them—but mediation works best when both parties cooperate. 

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

You don’t need to avoid mediation just because you have complex assets. In court, each spouse typically hires their own financial professional, leading to mistrust and conflict. In mediation, you can work with one neutral financial expert who explains everything to both of you, from business valuations to budgets and asset division. This shared understanding makes it more likely you’ll reach an agreement.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

Clients sometimes apologize or assume they’re the “worst” mediation clients, ever! What they view as messy or unproductive is often just part of a typical mediation. What makes mediation truly difficult is when one or both clients refuse to compromise, focus only on blame, or lack self-awareness. Still, even in high-conflict situations, mediation remains a viable option.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website—ClarePiroMediation.com.

One of the most important decisions you’ll make during a divorce is choosing the right mediator. In New York, mediators are not licensed or certified by the state, so it’s entirely up to you to determine whether a mediator is truly qualified. Here are some key questions to ask to ensure you're working with someone competent and committed to best practices.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

When choosing a divorce mediator, it’s important to know whether you want someone facilitative or directive. Knowing which type is right for you and your family is important. A facilitative mediator focuses on your needs and interests, while a directive mediator focuses more on the law and how it applies to your case.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.

In mediation consultations, people often express common concerns. Their questions reflect understandable worries about wasting time and money, being at a disadvantage, or feeling that cooperation is impossible. Asking these questions during a consultation helps clarify whether mediation is the right path and whether the mediator is a good fit.

For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, please visit my website at ClarePiroMediation.com.