Divorces get more and more expensive as years go by. This is one of the reasons that professional mediators are in such high demand. It's quite easy to choose a mediator and this is a blessing in a stressful and painful time like divorce.

What does a mediator do?

A mediator will help couples sit down and agree on different things within the divorce. This is done without a long and drawn out court battle. This also allows the couple to make decisions rather than a judge. A mediator should be very knowledgeable as far as laws and necessary legal documents required for a divorce to go through. They should also have a good amount of experience.

Type of Mediator -

Many mediators are also attorneys and some clients feel more comfortable with this. It is not required that you be an attorney before becoming a mediator, though. Choosing a mediator will largely depend upon your personal preferences. The couple should feel comfortable with the mediator they choose. This is why it's so important for the couple to feel relaxed and at ease. Although attorneys often make great mediators, social workers, counselors and psychologists also make great mediators.

What should you ask the mediator?

There are many different questions you can ask and you shouldn't hesitate to ask. You will save and money by going through a mediator and this is why it's so important to ask questions. Doing your research is a very important thing, just as if you were interviewing someone for a job.

Common Questions -

Here are some common questions you should ask the mediator before agreeing to work with him or her. • How long have you been in business and how long have you been mediating divorces? The more experience your mediator has, the better.

• How much training do you have? Forty hours of training is the minimum, so the more your mediator has above this is great.

• Do you have references that I can check? Although there may not be clients to speak to because of confidentiality reasons, your mediator may have professional colleagues that will vouch for him or her.

• How do you handle mediation, or what is your style? Of course, there are different styles for mediation the same way there are for attorneys, etc. Find out what direction they usually take with their mediation techniques.

• How much are your fees and how do you expect to be paid? The same way that mediators have different styles, they also have different fees. Find out what they charge before you commit.

• Will I receive informative materials? For instance, you may be provided with brochures, articles or helpful information about mediation, or how to make divorce easier, etc.