Frequently Asked Questions
There are many difficult decisions to make in every divorce or family law case, but mediation can simplify the process and help you save time, money, and stress.
- Is mediation a more affordable alternative to litigation?
- How is mediation different from going to court?
- Do I need a lawyer?
- Do we need to agree on everything?
- Can my mediator help me complete divorce documents?
- How does mediation save money?
- Does virtual mediation meet all the requirements for Court Ordered mediation in Colorado?
Save Costs & Avoid Uncertainty
In mediation the parties meet to discuss their dispute with a neutral mediator. A mediator does not take sides, but listens carefully to both parties and helps them communicate effectively to address their issues and concerns.
Reaching an agreement in mediation can give you clarity, certainty, and control over the outcome of your case.
- Faster & less expensive than going to trial.
- Allows for creative settlements.
- Opportunity to resolve disputes in a private & confidential setting.
How is mediation different from going to court?
In mediation you tell your story without having to question witnesses, present evidence, or argue your case. You have the opportunity to be heard without the pressure of presenting your case to the judge in a courtroom.
- In mediation, you decide what is best for you, your family, and your future.
Do I need a lawyer?
You can bring a lawyer if you choose, but you do not need to hire a lawyer.
- Approximately 73% of people getting divorced in Colorado represent themselves in court without a lawyer.
- From Colorado Judicial Branch Report, dated 12/15/2021
A mediator cannot give legal advice, but can help you create a written settlement agreement to submit to the Court. Once a judge approves your agreement, it becomes a Court Order.
You don’t need to agree on everything.
- Full Agreement
- It’s common for parties to agree on many things, but to have conflicting ideas about a few issues. Mediation can help resolve those issues by giving you the time and opportunity to brainstorm solutions and find the best resolution that’s tailored to your unique situation.
- Partial Agreement
- Partial Agreements are still beneficial because they limit the issues a judge needs to decide, so you can focus on the most important topics during your court hearing.
- You do not have to reach an agreement during mediation—it’s 100% your choice. Mediation stays confidential either way.
Your mediator can help you complete divorce documents.
If an agreement is reached, your mediator can fill out the Colorado Judicial Branch Forms with you during mediation, including:
- Separation Agreement
- Parenting Plan
- Child Support Worksheet
The court forms can be used for both partial and full agreements. After mediation, the parties can file the completed forms with the Court for the judge’s approval.
If you do not want to use the Court forms, your mediator can draft a written settlement document called a Memorandum of Understanding (or “MOU”). An MOU can also be filed with the Court.
How does mediation save money?
The average cost of hiring a divorce lawyer in Colorado ranges from $9,700-11,800. The average hourly rate for a divorce attorney is between $230-280.
Lawyers.com citing Martindale-Nolo Research, as of 7/22/2020
- Avoiding court saves time and money because mediation requires less preparation and is less time consuming than going to court.
- At VirtualMediation.co our standard rate is $150/hour total (75$/hour per person), and sessions can be as short as 2 hours. In many cases, a divorce case can be fully mediated in 8 hours or less.
- Mediation can help avoid future disputes because the parties create their own plan for moving forward. If a judge decides your case and you are not happy with their decision, you may end up back in court.
Virtual mediation is legal mediation that meets all the requirements for Court Ordered mediation in Colorado.
Virtual Mediation allows us to offer competitive rates because we do not have the same overhead costs that come with working in a traditional office.
If you choose VirtualMediation.co, you will mediate with an experienced family law attorney who is committed to helping both parties navigate stressful situations to find the best possible resolution to their case. We strive to help our clients save money without sacrificing quality or accessibility.
To learn more about how virtual mediation works, please click here.