Mediation is the
smarter way to divorce.
Let’s face it: You didn’t get married expecting to get divorced. But sometimes things happen. People change, surprises hit us and those willing to address it, own the ability to fix issues.
Make best parts of your life the
foundation of your next chapter.
Divorce happens more than you think. Americans having one of the highest rates of divorce in the world, and about one-third to one-half of marriages end in divorce. You may have one of these marriages, but do you really want the negativity? Why not take the things in your life that can be treasured, or that work, or that will lead you to the next thing; and protect them. The building blocks of your next life chapter.
Your best days can be ahead of you.
Unlike what we see in the movies or on TV, marital conflict does not necessarily mean divorce war. What is your next chapter?
Why not end your marriage in a way that allows you and your spouse move forward with dignity? We do that.
We’ve moved past the
out-dated thinking of divorce law.
What we do.
We help married spouses build a post-marriage life. We help them think through how to protect their children from the negative aspects of change. We help married spouses discuss how to fairly divide assets and debts. We facilitate discussions about child support and alimony. We help married parents put their children’s wellbeing first.
It’s not as difficult as you think.
You know what the reality is now. It is difficult enough that you have come to us. Who wants to pile on the misery? We want to help you and your spouse plan for your next steps without mutually assured destruction.
How we do it.
Next Chapter Mediations focuses on the building blocks of the family post-divorce, and assists spouses in fairly addressing the inevitable worry and fear that comes with change. Next Chapter is a process that uses a neutral third party to assist married spouses in coming to an agreement.
Mediation is the smarter way to divorce.
Our method of mediation rejects the old thinking in divorce law - that two sides will battle and one will win. We know mutually assured destruction leaves with little support after the battle is over. Our process looks there. What will your life be when all of this is over?
You have to agree to do it together.
It does take two to tango, so you and your spouse must both want to engage in this process. After providing preliminary information, your process begins with the first step of meeting the Next Chapter mediator.
It’s not as difficult as you think.
Next chapter is a process that ends with an agreement for separation, taking into account the building blocks you need for your next steps.
What we do.
Our neutral facilitators are mediators and trained attorneys.
If you live in New Jersey, you’ll be pared with an experienced New Jersey facilitator. They work will work with you to assess the building blocks in the family, your goals, your spouse’s goals, and your financial resources.
Our work can be as comprehensive as needed. A neutral facilitator will draft your agreement, which may be relatively simple (based on your wishes), or it may be more detailed (depending on your needs). Regardless, our work is tailored to your family. Our focus is on your and your spouse’s goals for your next chapter.
What it costs
If your issues are simple and you and your spouse can resolve things easily, the base level cost is: $3000
Our process is scalable depending on your needs and how many issues you and your spouse have to resolve. For example, in general, a couple with children have more issues to resolve than a couple without children. It also depends on how complex your financial issues are. For example, a family business, inheritance, or self-employment all typically add complexity to next chapter planning.
But generally speaking, using one of our facilitators is usually more cost effective than the traditional route.
Do you need a lawyer?
Our facilitators are all lawyers, but in this system, we do not provide legal advice. Good lawyers know how to give you and your spouse good advice that supports your desire to separate without sinking into negativity. Lawyers are not required to come to an agreement in our process, but we will always recommend that you check with a lawyer before signing a final agreement.
Will you need
other professionals?
You are in a period of change. We can help you plan, with your spouse for that change. Your financial circumstances may be complicated, and you may want an accountant. There may be psychological distress in your family and you may want a therapist to help. Whatever is needed to help you and your spouce step into this next chapter; other professionals can support this process. You should not go it alone when you are most in need. We have a network of specialists that we can refer you to if asked.
Getting started is easy.
You are in a period of change. We can help you plan, with your spouse for that change. Your financial circumstances may be complicated, and you may want an accountant. There may be psychological distress in your family and you may want a therapist to help. Whatever is needed to help you and your spouce step into this next chapter; other professionals can support this process. You should not go it alone when you are most in need. We have a network of specialists that we can refer you to if asked.
