It is far from uncommon for many divorce cases, especially those involving issues of child custody, to be referred by judges for mediation. The mediation process does not operate like a trial, so many people enter without clear expectations of what to expect.
Put simply, mediation allows two parties to reach compromises on several issues relating to a divorce so they can work out a settlement agreement that a court can turn into a binding order. You should go into mediation with an idea of being willing to give on certain issues to facilitate agreements, but you may also have certain topics you feel strongly about and may not be able to reach agreements through mediation.
How Mediation Works
You need to understand that the neutral third party overseeing your mediation session will be a mediator, and they are not a judge. They do not render any decisions or force any settlement agreements.
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