Divorce Mediation Blog

Mindfulness and “Self-in-Presence”: A Tool for Divorce Mediation?
General, Mediation, Well-Being

{5:18 minutes to read} How do we get present? Last time we looked at the importance of mindfulness and getting present, so how do we do it? Practice, practice, practice!  And, softly, softly, softly. One suggestion: set an alarm on your smartphone to sound a gentle tone several times during the day.  When you hear … Continue reading Mindfulness and “Self-in-Presence”: A Tool for Divorce Mediation?

To Mediate or Not to Mediate: The Question of Power Imbalance, Part III
Mediation

{3:42 minutes to read} Litigation and Power Imbalances DANGER! Safety is essential always, and certainly in mediation, where a degree of candor, contact and exchange are generally required. So, if the mediation environment is unsuitable, what then? Entering litigation is not necessarily the answer. Troubled relationships present issues in any forum, but litigation can exaggerate … Continue reading To Mediate or Not to Mediate: The Question of Power Imbalance, Part III

To Mediate or Not to Mediate: The Question of Power Imbalance, Part II
Mediation

{3:42 minutes to read} In Part I of this series, we defined a power imbalance and how to spot it. We discussed two of six integral recommendations in working with it in divorce mediation. This article continues where we left off, exploring the other four. Third: Slow Down and Pay Attention In mediation, there must … Continue reading To Mediate or Not to Mediate: The Question of Power Imbalance, Part II

To Mediate or Not to Mediate: The Question of Power Imbalance, Part I
Mediation

{4:00 minutes to read} Certain relationships are problematic and challenging, whether in mediation or litigation. This article looks at one particular challenge – power imbalances – and how they are managed in mediation vs. litigation. Many, if not all, relationships experience power imbalances at different times. In fact, power imbalances are one of the main … Continue reading To Mediate or Not to Mediate: The Question of Power Imbalance, Part I

“Someday” and “Maybe” Numbers: The Challenge of Dividing Retirement Assets Part 3
Divorce, Finance

{4:00 minutes to read} In Part 2, we discussed marital vs non-marital retirement assets and how some of those assets require an actuary or other expert to figure out the “present value” before the asset can be divided. We now arrive here: How do folks equitably divide these assets? Particularly because the present value doesn’t … Continue reading “Someday” and “Maybe” Numbers: The Challenge of Dividing Retirement Assets Part 3

“Someday” and “Maybe” Numbers: The Challenge of Dividing Retirement Assets – Part 2
Divorce, Finance

{4:00 minutes to read} Just because we determine a value for something does not mean we divide it! Often spouses are concerned that the mere mention of an asset puts it on the auction block and forfeits their exclusive rights to it. Not so! Getting a comprehensive picture and value of ALL assets is an … Continue reading “Someday” and “Maybe” Numbers: The Challenge of Dividing Retirement Assets – Part 2

“Someday” and “Maybe” Numbers: The Challenge of Dividing Retirement Assets – Part 1
Divorce, Finance

{2:48 minutes to read} “Hands off,” decries one spouse, “I worked for this, not you. Back off, you lazy sot!” Retirement Assets While I loathe being the bearer of what could be received as bad news: assets earned during the marriage are marital property and subject to equitable distribution. This includes assets earned directly from … Continue reading “Someday” and “Maybe” Numbers: The Challenge of Dividing Retirement Assets – Part 1