You do not need a lawyer to participate in mediation. However, there are some situations in which it may be a good idea to consult with a lawyer before, during, or after mediation. For example, you may want to talk to a lawyer to:
- Learn about your legal rights and responsibilities in divorce.
- Get help understanding and negotiating a settlement agreement.
- Write and review the mediated settlement agreement and the final divorce agreement before you sign it.
If you have already filed for divorce and have an attorney, your attorney may not need to attend the mediation sessions. However, it can be helpful to have your attorney available for consultation.
Here are some tips for deciding whether or not to hire a lawyer for mediation:
- Consider your budget. Legal fees can be expensive, so it is important to factor in the cost of hiring a lawyer when making your decision.
- Think about the complexity of your case. If you have a complex divorce with many assets or children involved, you may want to consider hiring a lawyer to help you navigate the mediation process.
- Consider your comfort level. If you feel more comfortable having a lawyer represent you, then you should hire one.
Insights has mediators trained mediator in divorce and family mediation. We can help you understand the mediation process and decide if you need a lawyer.