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Is Mediation Right for Me?
Answer a few questions about your situation and we'll help you gauge whether mediation looks realistic, premature, or risky right now.
Is Mediation Right for Your Situation?
Divorce mediation works for the vast majority of couples — research shows a 70-80% success rate in reaching full agreements. But it's not right for every situation. Here's what the research says about who benefits most.
Mediation Is a Great Fit When:
- Both parties are willing to participate voluntarily
- Both want a fair outcome, even if they disagree on specifics
- Communication is possible, even if strained
- Both parties are willing to be transparent about finances
- Both can advocate for themselves or have counsel to help
- Children are involved and a co-parenting relationship is needed
Mediation May Not Be Appropriate When:
- Active domestic violence or coercive control — safety must come first
- One party is hiding assets or being financially dishonest
- Severe power imbalance — one party cannot advocate for themselves
- Active substance abuse impacting judgment or safety
- One party refuses to participate or negotiate in good faith
- Active protective orders that haven't been modified
What the Research Shows
- Dr. Robert Emery's 12-year study found that families who mediated had dramatically better outcomes: 28% of nonresident parents saw their children weekly at 12-year follow-up, compared to just 9% of those who litigated
- Mediated agreements have higher compliance rates than court-imposed orders because both parties helped create the terms
- Approximately 90% of divorces settle before trial — most couples can reach agreement with the right support
- Mediation costs $3,000-$8,000 total compared to $15,000-$50,000+ for litigation
Not Sure Yet?
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With 30+ years of experience and over 8,000 families served, Common Ground can help you understand your options — no pressure, no obligation.
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