Originally posted on https://moshierlaw.com/divorce-mediation-cost/

On average, divorce mediation costs about $7,5000 per spouse, with prices ranging anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 per spouse in the US in 2019, according to Canterbury Law Group. Additionally, according to Thumbtack, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $700 an hour to hire a private divorce mediator. However, divorce mediation costs can vary greatly depending on the divorce mediation type. Typical sessions are billed by the hour or by the session. Usually, a divorce mediation session will take around two to four hours to finish.  Some cases will require multiple sessions or, in some cases can be resolved on the day of the first mediation session.

Nevertheless, if the divorce mediation process is ineffective and the case goes to trial, the cost of divorce litigation can range anywhere from $78,000 to $200,000.

What Is Divorce Mediation?

When two parties negotiate a divorce agreement outside of court, it goes through a process commonly known as divorce mediation. This happens with the help of a third-party impartial known as a mediator. This individual is impartial, meaning they are not in favor of either spouse. The mediator does not have the power to make any divorce decisions and is not a judge. The mediator is usually a family law attorney, or former family law judge or other professional well versed in the law.

Divorce Mediation Cost Factors

Four factors determine the cost of mediation in a divorce.

• The Fee for Set-Up. A lot of mediators will charge an up-front set-up fee for meeting with the spouses. During the first meeting, the mediator and the couple will go over the various issues that require resolving.
• The Amount of Mediation Sessions. Most likely, the number of sessions you have will determine the total amount you will pay.  The more sessions needed to resolve the issues, the higher the cost will be.
• Community-based Divorce Mediation. Sometimes offered through an agency, community-based divorce mediation will help with a mediating service for free or at a lowered cost for those who can’t afford it, or don’t have the means.
• Private Mediation: A private practice divorce mediator usually will cost between $200-$750 per hour. You will typically pay an average of $200-$400 per hour. Depending on your location and the experience of the divorce mediator, the cost can differ greatly. However, you usually get what you pay for.

Other Costs Associated with Mediation

There are some other charges combined with divorce mediation. If the couple succeeds, there will be charges to produce the final legal documents. This can vary from $500 to $2,000, preferably this expense can be shared equally.

Divorce mediation can also charge a fee for the following:

• Canceled sessions.
• Filing a request for mediation.
• A “Case Handling Fee.” Or mediation management
• Keeping a written record of each mediation session.

Should I Consult a Lawyer about Divorce Mediation Cost?

If you are thinking about divorce or starting the process of getting a divorce, please consult with a divorce attorney. You will still require the advice and assistance of a lawyer so they can oversee the process and protect your rights. Keep in mind, divorce mediation is essential when it comes to settling issues that are out of court. In larger asset families, each party will usually attend live mediation accompanied by their lawyers. Some, with fewer resources to spend, may require their lawyers to be “on call” by cell phone or landline as they go through the mediation individually with their spouse and mediator.

How Much Does Divorce Mediation Cost In Arizona?

The average divorce mediation cost in Arizona is about $7,500. Arizona divorce meditation costs for Arizona ranged from $5,000 to $10,000 in 2019. Hiring a private divorce mediator in Arizona will cost you an average of $500 per hour; with hourly costs ranging from $300 to $700.

Speak with Our Scottsdale Divorce Mediators Today!

We have a specialized network of Arizona attorneys, tax specialists, financial planners, estate planners, child specialists, real estate property appraisers, adult and child therapists and parenting coordinators who are here to help you when needed. Our Scottsdale divorce mediators are here to make your divorce less exhausting and will help keep you in control.

Divorce and Family Law

When a case demands litigation, you’ll have the benefit of 19 years of litigation experience in California and Arizona. But when a case demands collaborative law, or mediation, we can meaningfully describe why collaborative law or mediation may or may not be your best option.

Moshier Law services all of Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona. Jennifer and her team of professionals seek to resolve Family Law cases efficiently with your goals in mind.