Divorce and Coparenting Mediation: Summary

Divorce and coparenting mediation is a confidential process in which a neutral third party—a mediator—helps divorcing or separated parents resolve disputes and reach agreements related to their children and shared responsibilities. The goal is to promote cooperation, reduce conflict, and create a stable, workable parenting plan that supports the best interests of the children. We can also assist in modifying parenting plans and assisting coparents work through major disagreements.

Our team includes registered mediators who are experienced in both divorce and coparenting matters. We are listed on most metro-Atlanta court-approved mediation rosters and are available for both private and court-referred cases.

Key Aspects

  • Divorce mediation focuses on resolving broader issues like property division, spousal support, and parenting arrangements. It helps couples avoid a contentious court battle by reaching mutually acceptable solutions.

  • Coparenting mediation addresses creating or modifying parenting plans, custody arrangements, visitation schedules, communication strategies, and how major decisions will be made about the children's upbringing. It can also include trying to work through major coparenting disputes.

  • Terms of Separation: As part of the mediation process, couples may create a "terms of separation" agreement. This document outlines practical arrangements during a legal separation, such as living situations, financial responsibilities, and temporary parenting schedules. While this agreement is typically not legally binding, it can serve as a framework to guide behavior and expectations until a formal legal agreement is in place. Courts may consider it if disputes arise and if the parties have followed its terms in good faith.

Mediation Outcomes

Mediation can end in several ways, each with different implications and next steps:

  • Full resolution: All issues are resolved to the satisfaction of both parties. The mediator drafts a comprehensive agreement covering all relevant matters (such as custody, finances, property, and support). This agreement can be reviewed by attorneys and submitted to the court to become legally binding.
    Benefits: Saves time, reduces costs, minimizes stress, and empowers both parties to shape the outcome.

  • Partial resolution: Some, but not all, issues are resolved. The mediator prepares a summary of agreed-upon items, and the remaining disputes may be addressed through further mediation, legal negotiation, or litigation.
    Benefits: Narrows the scope of conflict, reduces time and expense in court, and builds momentum toward a final resolution.

  • Temporary resolution: Agreements are reached on short-term or urgent matters, such as temporary custody schedules or financial support, while other issues remain open. These can provide stability during the separation or divorce process.
    Benefits: Offers immediate structure and relief, protects the well-being of children, and reduces interim conflict.

  • Impasse: No agreement is reached. The mediation ends without resolution, and the parties may choose to pursue litigation or other forms of dispute resolution.

Moving Forward

  • After full resolution, the agreement is typically reviewed by legal counsel, signed, and filed with the court.

  • In a partial or temporary resolution, unresolved matters may return to mediation or proceed to court.

  • Following an impasse, the parties may pursue litigation or consider another round of mediation with a different approach or mediator.

Mediation offers a flexible, collaborative alternative to court, helping families make thoughtful decisions that prioritize stability and the best interests of their children—even when agreement is only partial or temporary.