This guide is to help you be as prepared as possible for what information you will typically be asked to provide during the divorce mediation or collaborative process.  During this understandably stressful time having as much knowledge as possible regarding what to expect can hopefully ease some of the anxiety that can accompany this time in your life. All of this preparation will help you to make  informed and sound decisions about your financial futures when you are living separately.   Equitable Distribution of Marital Assets New York is an equitable distribution state, whic ..read more

At some point in the mediation or collaborative process, spouses need to make a decision as to whether they wish to separate or divorce. They will choose between entering into a Separation Agreement and converting it to a divorce sometime in the future or entering into what is called a Stipulation of Settlement Agreement if they opt to divorce now.  Separation Agreement vs. Stipulation of Settlement Agreement The content of both agreements is substantively the same.  Each agreement deals with the equitable distribution of assets acquired during the marriage, such as bank acco ..read more

The concept of nesting is to have the children remain in the marital home with whichever parent is scheduled to be with them according to the parenting schedule.  Due to the high cost of renting or purchasing a new home, parents who wish to divorce or separate may opt to continue to maintain the marital residence for the children and delay renting or purchasing a new residence large enough to accommodate the children until they are in a financially better position to do so.  Where does the parent who is not scheduled to be with the children reside?  There are several options.&n ..read more

The decision to separate or divorce is usually one of the most difficult decisions of one’s life and is most likely something you’ve been thinking about for some time. But, once you have decided to move forward, it is so important to decide the best way to tell your spouse. The manner in which you handle the initial conversation can set the tone for how you hope the process to separate or divorce can happen. How Will Your Spouse React? It is often difficult to predict how your spouse will react to this conversation. Even if you believe that your spouse has recognized that the marria ..read more

One of the most difficult and emotionally wrenching aspects of going through a separation or divorce is breaking the news to your children. Parents struggle with the timing of when they should tell their children and what they will actually say. Studies have shown that children hearing “the news” of their parents’ separation is a moment that changed their lives forever and is often replayed many times in their memory. As much as the ending of your marriage has been difficult and emotionally draining for you, as parents you can expect that there will be a significant impact on y ..read more

One of the most important decisions you and your spouse or partner will undertake during your separation or divorce will be to create a parenting plan that will work for your children and for both of you. The primary goal of any parenting plan is to foster the well- being of the children and to encourage the continued loving and emotional support from both parents. In mediation or the collaborative divorce process, we will help you create a parenting plan that will meet the particular and unique needs of your family. Custody Arrangement The first thing you need to discuss and decide is whethe ..read more

At some point during the mediation or collaborative law process, couples will need to decide if they wish to live under a Separation Agreement or go straight for divorce. The first question most people ask is what’s the difference between separation and divorce?  The language in each agreement as it relates to child support or spousal support, a parenting plan or the equitable distribution of assets such as the house or retirement plans or debts accrued during the marriage is the same—only the title of the agreement and the provision relating to a separation or a divorce is different.&nb ..read more

One of the most stressful aspects of getting a divorce is knowing how it can affect children. Not only can it take an emotional toll on the young ones in the family, but it can also affect their financial support. This is where child support comes in. With child support, the custodial and noncustodial parent can still ensure their child or children are properly cared for.  Divorce Mediation is an affordable and amicable option for discussing and deciding on the various intricacies of separation or divorce. Instead of taking your case to the courts and experiencing a lengthy and stressful ..read more

The emotional stages of divorce can be difficult and overwhelming to deal with. Everyone experiences divorce differently but understanding the various emotional stages can help you get through this process with more clarity and hope. Letting go of someone you love, or once loved, is never easy. Whatever your reason for divorce may be, our skilled and compassionate team at New York Divorce Mediation Group can help you through this challenging time. In this article, we will discuss the emotional stages of divorce and how mediation can help your divorce be less stressful.  The Emotional Tol ..read more

Divorce is often one of life’s greatest stressors and the goal in a mediated or collaborative divorce process is to achieve a more peaceful, calm, divorce process that is focused on support at this difficult time. Mediation and the collaborative divorce process are generally faster, more amicable, and more cost-effective alternative dispute resolution processes than litigation.  If you seek a calmer and less stressful or costly manner in which to separate or divorce, mediation may be the best option for you and your family. Mediators have your best interest in mind, and unlike the courts ..read more