What to Expect in a Divorce Mediation~ 3 min read
Divorce Mediation is a private process where you and your spouse work with a neutral mediator to discuss every detail of your case, from custody to property division, with the goal of reaching a fair resolution.
Understanding the Mediation Process
When you attend divorce Mediation, you will meet with a neutral third party called a mediator. Sometimes your attorney will be present, and sometimes they won’t. The mediator’s role is not to take sides but to help you and your spouse explore possible resolutions. They will walk through the facts of your case, explain how the law applies, and guide you in discussing child custody, child support, spousal support, property division, and other important topics.
Preparing for Mediation
You should come ready to talk about every aspect of your case. This includes not only what has already happened but also potential solutions. Before the session, review your situation with your attorney so you understand what is reasonable and where you have room to compromise.
Confidentiality and Privacy
Mediation is confidential. The mediator cannot share the details of your discussions with the court. If you do not reach an agreement, the only information the court will receive is whether Mediation was successful or not. This allows you to speak freely without fear of it being used against you later.
How Long Does It Last?
Most Mediation sessions are scheduled in two-hour blocks, but some can take half a day or even a full day. The length often depends on how much information you and your spouse have already exchanged and how close you are to reaching an agreement.
How Mediation Sessions Are Structured
Every Mediation looks a little different. Often, the process begins with everyone in the same room, but that can vary depending on the situation. If attorneys are involved, the mediator may start by meeting with them separately before bringing the parties together. In some cases, the mediator goes back and forth between rooms the entire time, while in others you may all meet together for parts of the session.
Flexibility is one of the strengths of Mediation. If there are safety concerns or communication challenges, it may be better for you and your spouse to stay in separate rooms, or even to participate through Zoom. On the other hand, some cases benefit from being in the same room to have more direct discussions. Your mediator will adjust the format based on what works best for your circumstances.
After Mediation
If you and your spouse come to an agreement, the mediator may draft the settlement documents. Attorneys can also draft them if you prefer. Once the paperwork is reviewed, signed, and submitted to the judge, your divorce is finalized, often without the need to appear in court.
Contact Family Ally
At Family Ally, we know Mediation can be one of the most effective ways to resolve your divorce. Our team will guide you through the process and help you focus on building a better future. Contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation and discuss whether mediation is right for you.
Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.
Jennifer R. Piper is a family law attorney, mediator, and parenting coordinator with more than 20 years of experience serving families in the St. Louis area. She is certified as a Guardian ad Litem and frequently appointed by courts to represent children in high-conflict cases. Jennifer is a former Chair of the Family and Juvenile Law Section of the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and an active leader in local and state bar organizations.
Her professional recognition includes being named to The Best Lawyers in America® (2017–2025), Missouri Super Lawyers (2021–2024), and receiving a Women’s Justice Award from Missouri Lawyers Weekly. Jennifer also holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. She regularly speaks on family law topics and has helped shape family court procedures through her service on multiple committees.
