Divorces are inherently difficult due to the emotions and circumstances involved. Duffy & Associates’ five mediation ground rules address these and other critical aspects of ending a marriage to ensure the best possible mediation result.

Good Faith Effort
Each client agrees to make a good faith effort to facilitate the mediation process. In doing so, both parties agree to work cooperatively with their spouse and the mediator by discussing the disputes and by helping to work toward a mutually acceptable resolution.

Full Disclosure
The Domestic Relations Court requires that there be a full disclosure of any and all financial assets.

Respect
All participants will conduct themselves within the bounds of common courtesy. Name-calling, foul language or undue argumentative conduct will impede the mediation’s success, and may compel the mediator to cancel the mediation session.

Voluntary Process
Mediation is a voluntary procedure. While the mediator will make every effort to help the couple reach an agreement on all points, either spouse may decide to isolate any given issue and seek legal counsel to resolve that matter. Seeking outside legal counsel does not end the mediation process; it merely isolates the issues that require a legal determination from those that can be resolved more quickly, effectively, and economically in mediation.