Divorce Mediation

Divorce mediation is an alternative to court litigation for resolving disputes that arise as two people separate their lives.  A neutral third party called a “mediator” helps the couple to work through the issues of their divorce and reach a mutually agreeable settlement.  Please note that mediation may not be safe or appropriate for individuals with a history or fear of domestic violence. 

How Do I Find a Divorce Mediator?

1) Check with your local Community Dispute Resolution Center (CDRC).  Most CDRCs offer free mediation of parenting disputes. For help to resolve financial or other aspects of divorce (e.g., support, property and debt division), couples can ask at their local CDRCs for a referral list of trained divorce mediators who can take cases on a fee-for-service basis. 

2) Check with professional dispute resolution associations.

3) If your case is already in court, ask court staff for a referral to a reduced-fee, court-based mediation program. 

4) If you live in New York City (Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, or Staten Island), you may be eligible for a limited number of free divorce mediation sessions. Both spouses must agree to participate. Referrals to divorce mediation will not be made in cases involving domestic violence or child abuse. Send an email to matrimonialmediation@courts.state.ny.us with your phone number or call 212-428-5592 for more information.

How Can I Learn More About Divorce in New York?

Visit Divorce Resources.