Mediation
A voluntary process where a neutral third party helps divorcing spouses negotiate and reach their own settlement.
Example
Through mediation, they reached agreement on all issues in four sessions.
Canadian Equivalent
In Canada, this is referred to as Mediation (mandatory in some provinces: ON requires Mandatory Information Program; BC requires Notice to Mediate in some cases).
Jurisdiction Variations
CALIFORNIA
Mandatory Mediation (custody only)
California requires mandatory mediation for child custody disputes (Family Code §3170)
FLORIDA
Mandatory Mediation
Florida requires mediation before trial in all contested family cases
NORTH-CAROLINA
Mandatory Mediation (custody)
North Carolina requires mediation in all contested custody cases
Related Terms
mediatorarbitrationcollaborative-divorce