Note that answers given in this section cannot take the place of independent legal or financial advice. Please read our disclaimer.

"My wife wants to mediate our case because she says we will save money by not having to hire lawyers. My friends say we will still need to have a lawyer involved. Who's right?"

Our goal is for the couple to reach a mutually acceptable agreement related to the issues relevant to a separation or divorce that both consider fair and in the best interests of any minor children.  Clients may choose to obtain legal, as well as any other professional advice, at any time during the mediation process. We find that attorneys are very supportive of the mediation process, and recognize its value in producing clients who are comfortable with their agreements.  We require each party to take any agreement they have reached in mediation to an attorney for at least a one-time consultation prior to signing, so that they have the benefit of advice from someone who represents their interests, which we do not.

John C. Juarez is a professional, full-time mediator with Pamela Britton White Mediation Services. View the firm's Divorce Magazine profile.