At Family Mediation Center, it is our goal to help you select the process that is right for you and your family. You create agreements based on your individual and family priorities and interests. Following the process below allows you to privately and jointly resolve your issues rather than having a judge make decisions about your finances and children.

The Divorce Mediation Process

• Establish the Framework: Couple & Mediator meet to agree on process, specialists and next steps
• Gather Information: Collect financial and other information; assure understanding
• Share Interests, Needs & Values: Discuss interests, wants and needs (family and financial)
• Brainstorm Settlement Options: Consider options and impact
• Negotiate to Resolution: Reach agreements
• Completion: Court approval
• Final Court Hearing

See The Step-by-Step Wisconsin Divorce Mediation Process

Who is Involved in the Mediation Process

Role of the Clients
● Be respectful, transparent, and cooperative
● Actively and honestly communicate
● Provide necessary information and homework
● Consider the interests and needs of your spouse/partner and children
● Focus on the big picture, long term goals, and current/future impact on your family

Role of the Lawyer Mediator
● A licensed lawyer is the couple’s neutral third-party educator and guide through the legal process
● Drafts and files all court-required legal documents
● Assures a full exchange of information and informed decisions
● Promotes communication to help clients create a reasonable resolution
● Connects with any specialists and consulting lawyers to assure efficiency

Options for Additional Help As Needed

Role of the Child Specialist
● A licensed mental health professional with expertise in children and families
● Meets with parents to assist with how to tell children and help with family changes
● Meets with children to bring their “voice” into the process
● Provides child-focused feedback to assist with family transitions
● Helps parents communicate and create a workable co-parenting plan

Role of the Financial Neutral/Specialist
● A licensed financial professional with expertise in separation and divorce issues
● Reviews and analyzes income, assets and debts, including analysis of tax effects
● Assures both clients understand all financial information to make informed decisions
● Assists in generating options and understanding of current and future financial impact
● Provides neutral and creative input to support positive financial outcomes for the family

Contact the Family Mediation Center Today

Address: 126 North Jefferson Street, Suite 200 Milwaukee, WI 53202
​Phone: 414-939-6707
​Email: info@familymediationcenter.org

We offer online mediation services throughout the State of Wisconsin. Mediation Locations are available for in person meetings in Milwaukee.