Mediation Process

The mediation team (the couple, along with Jill and the child specialist, if needed) will collaboratively address key issues, such as dividing assets and debts, financial support, and parenting arrangements. This process avoids court appearances, keeping decision-making in the hands of the parents and maintaining confidentiality. Only the final Marital Settlement Agreement is filed with the court.

Jill connects clients with a network of professionals, including financial specialists, child therapists, and co-parenting experts, to support the couple throughout the process.

The mediation program includes:

• Sessions to create a legally binding Marital Settlement Agreement.

• Preparation and filing of all necessary divorce paperwork.

• Access to a team of professionals providing emotional, legal, and financial support.

Jill’s Unique Process

Jill forms a supportive team that includes the couple, a child advocate if children are involved, and herself. Jill is dedicated to giving children a voice, ensuring their needs are prioritized with the help of a child specialist—a licensed therapist or psychologist experienced in divorce advocacy.

Jill’s approach emphasizes restructuring the family rather than splitting it. The child advocate works to help parents make decisions that benefit their children and foster cooperative co-parenting. Through regular meetings, the advocate understands the children’s concerns and explains the process at age-appropriate levels.

What sets Jill apart is her practice of documenting agreements made in each session. These agreements are compiled into a document that becomes a legally binding contract once signed, requiring both parties to adhere to them immediately. Over time, these agreements are consolidated into a final document known as the Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA), which is filed with the court. Once filed and stamped, the MSA becomes the court-ordered divorce judgment that both parties must follow.

Jill prefers to work with clients who can cooperate and prioritize their children’s well-being. She will not engage with couples where one partner is involved with a third party or where outside influences (friends, family, etc.) are impacting divorce decisions. This process is meant to be resolved solely between the husband and wife, free from outside interference.

Free Consultation (1-hour)

Jill offers a free 1-hour consultation to discuss the divorce process and outline the next steps before filing. During this meeting, she will address any questions you may have. After the consultation, Jill will email you a retention agreement, a separation agreement, forms to complete, a code of conduct agreement, and a list of topics for you to discuss together.

If you choose to hire Jill as your divorce mediator, she encourages you to approach subsequent mediation sessions with a collaborative mindset. This includes a commitment to participating in a productive divorce process, a willingness to work together, and a focus on creating and adhering to agreements. It’s vital to prioritize your children's welfare and consider each party's best interests with kindness throughout the mediation process and beyond.

Establishing a positive post-divorce relationship is crucial for the adjustment and peace of all parties involved, and it fosters a healthy environment for your children. Understanding the importance of harmonious co-parenting is essential for making mutual decisions about your children now and in the future. Striving to build a cordial relationship—ideally, a friendship—will help you navigate life's shared moments, such as graduations, weddings, and welcoming grandchildren.

The more agreements you can reach as a couple before mediation, the more time and money you will save. Jill will provide a list of subjects for you to discuss together prior to your first session.