You’ve decided that divorce between you and your spouse is imminent. Instead of dissolving your marriage through litigation, you choose to separate as amicably as possible through Divorce Mediation. Whereas there may be some comfort in knowing your divorce will be handled by an experienced and knowledgeable attorney if you decide to litigate, you don’t feel a litigated divorce is right for you. But is your divorce case in good hands should you decide to mediate? Do divorce mediators in New York at least require a license to practice?

Do Divorce Mediators Require Certification Or Licenses In New York?

It might sound scary, but in fact, divorce mediators in New York do not require a license to practice. Essentially anyone can open a business as a divorce mediator. Many times, divorce lawyers, family counselors, and psychotherapists become mediators. Their prior training and experience aids them in helping couples resolve their divorces amicably.

Do Divorce Lawyers Make Good Divorce Mediators

There’s a stigma that lawyers don’t make very good divorce mediators since they are used to being one-sided – in favor of their client. But at Suffolk County Divorce Mediation Service, our mediators have successfully handled hundreds of divorce cases – both completed through litigation and mediation. Whether a divorce case is litigated or mediated, any disputes likely involve complex legal matters. This is one reason why having lawyer mediate your divorce can be extremely beneficial. They have extensive knowledge on how the divorce process works. They can inform you on everything you need to know – from the legalities surrounding your divorce to your rights as a parent. Depending on experience, divorce lawyers may be highly-skilled at dispute resolution too.

What Makes A Good Divorce Mediator?

So, it’s important that you choose the right divorce mediator – and choosing a lawyer as a mediator may be your best bet given their knowledge on the subject. A good divorce mediator is informative, caring, pays attention to both party’s wants and needs and remains a neutral third-party. They can also facilitate positive communication between both parties and come up with creative solutions for divorce-related disputes. If you decide to mediate your divorce, check up on your divorce mediator via online reviews.