Mediation

Divorce mediation offers a peaceful, dignified path to ending your marriage without stepping foot in a courtroom. As your mediator, we guide both you and your spouse through constructive conversations to reach agreements that work for everyone involved. Our streamlined, virtual process combines legal guidance (without legal advice) with emotional intelligence, ensuring you feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout your divorce journey.

How Mediation Works

The Core Principles

1. Commitment to Settlement Without Court

  • Agreement to work out terms of your divorce in the mediation room without threats of litigation.

  • No court appearances needed.

  • Focus on your interests instead of legal positions

  • Working together to ensure a more comprehensive settlement is reached.

2. Full Disclosure

  • Open sharing of all relevant information

  • Complete financial transparency

  • Honest communication about needs and concerns

  • No hidden agendas or secrets

3. Settlement First Approach

  • Prioritize children's wellbeing

  • Consider long-term family dynamics

  • Prioritize the best interest for your future

  • Sustainable solutions created for your family

Your Mediation Process

Unlike traditional divorce litigation, mediation gives you the power to make decisions for your family's best interests.

Mediation Steps

Mediation Sessions: Sessions are conducted virtually and typically last between 60 to 90 minutes. The focus is on problem-solving and finding common ground. The number of sessions required, as well as any additional support needed to reach a final resolution, will vary based on the unique dynamics of your family. These sessions are billed hourly.

Stipulation of Settlement Drafting: Once all outstanding issues have been resolved in the final mediation sessions, our drafting attorney will prepare a legal document outlining the terms agreed upon during mediation. You will have the opportunity to review this document with the drafting attorney, and any personal legal counsel, before signing. This is a flat fee service.

Divorce Application: This includes the preparation, review, and electronic filing of all necessary documents required by New York State to finalize your divorce. The number of forms to be completed and reviewed will depend on your specific circumstances, such as having children under 21, support needs, and other relevant factors. This is a flat fee service.

Additional Support

As needed, additional resources may include:

  • Parenting coordinators

  • Financial experts

  • Review attorney

  • Other professionals based on your unique situation

    • Estate planners

    • Property appraisal

    • Divorce coaches

    • Special needs planning

    • Mental health counseling

Note: See below for flat fee mediation services.

  • Required documentation includes:

    1. Signed retainer agreement

    2. Signed Client's Rights and Responsibilities document

    3. Completed intake sheet

    4. Paid invoice

    • Eligibility for this service is determined solely by Vaz Law and you must qualify.

    • This is a virtual service. All mediation sessions and signings are conducted online

    • Upfront payments. The full cost is paid in advance digitally. Paper checks are not accepted for this service.

    • Additional charges may apply

    • Full Description Available Here

Benefits of Mediation

  • Control Over Outcomes

    You and your spouse make all decisions

    No judge deciding your future

    Flexibility to create custom solutions

  • Cost & Time Efficient

    More efficient use of resources compared to litigation

    Timeline based on your schedule and involvement

    No court appearances required

  • Preserves Relationships

    Reduces conflict and emotional stress

    Better for co-parenting relationships

    Maintains dignity throughout process

  • Future Focused

    Effective communication skills

    Create practical, workable solutions

    Build foundation for positive next chapter

Is Mediation Right for You?

Mediation might be your best option if:

  • Both parties are willing to communicate respectfully

  • You want to maintain control over decisions

  • You're seeking a cost-effective solution

  • You prefer privacy over public court proceedings

  • You value an efficient process

  • You are a member of the LGBTQ+ community

  • Cases involving domestic violence can benefit greatly from the mediation process

Pricing

Mediation Service

Ask about our "Kitchen Table Settlements" option for couples needing minimal mediation

Ask about our "Fixed Rate Mediation Service" options for couples needing varying levels of support with predictable pricing.

What's Included

During Mediation

  • Full intake meeting with Director of Client Services prior to initiation of formal mediation sessions

  • Virtual mediation sessions

  • Neutral facilitation

  • Post-session documentation (MOU)

  • Clear action items and next steps

Document Creation

  • Stipulation of Settlement drafting

  • Complete divorce application packet

  • Document review session

  • Filing service (if selected)

  • Electronic notification of case progress

Retainer Fees

Vaz Law Mediation Retainer

  • $5,000

  • Any additional professionals needed will have their own separate fees


Additional Costs

  • Court filing fees (paid separately to the court)

  • QDRO drafting and review if needed (separate fee)

  • Additional specialists if required

Payment Options

  • Legal fee financing available through LawPay for Vaz Law's services

  • Fixed rate mediation service available (ask for details)

  • Mediation fees must be paid before work begins

  • Each professional bills separately if needed

The Vaz Difference

Modern & Virtual-First

  • Flexible virtual meetings designed for busy professionals

  • Secure client portal for seamless document sharing and communication

  • Electronic document signing and management

  • Work comfortably from anywhere, on your schedule

Transparent & Predictable Pricing

  • Clear pricing structure explained upfront

  • Optional fixed rate services with structured timelines

  • No surprise costs or hidden fees

  • Financing options available through LawPay

Comprehensive Support

  • Timely communications with your dedicated legal team

  • Facilitator-led meetings to keep progress on track

  • Carefully vetted network of specialists

  • Resource referrals, including:

    • Expert financial guidance for complex assets

    • Mental health services

    • Immigration services

    • Real Estate services

    • Trust and Estates services

Gail H.

“From our first meeting, I knew I was in good hands (with Liz Vaz.)”

Nathan

“[Lis] was in constant contact with me every step of the way which ultimately provided me with a peace of mind that was priceless during those turbulent times.”

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