Kent answers your
questions.
Q: Do you have to hire an attorney to divorce or separate in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, you are not required to retain an attorney to divorce or separate. In my process, attorneys are only invited to mediation sessions if we can't resolve an issue and legal advice would be helpful toward resolution and mediation moving forward.
Q: Will we have to appear in court?
Maybe, but it won't hurt! In divorce, you may need to attend a default hearing before the judge. A default hearing is required when minor children are involved, and in Hennepin County, may not be required at all.
Also, if one spouse retains an attorney during mediation but the other spouse doesn't, the judge will request a default hearing.
A default hearing is a short, informal appeararance before the judge to help him/her better understand the agreement and have any questions answered directly by those involved. An attorney is not required for a default hearing.
Q: How long does a typical DIVORCE mediation take at Mediation One?
Mediation-oriented partners are usually more amicable and cooperative, so I can often begin preparing a written Agreement after 3-4 two hour sessions. We have worked with cases where the signed documents were sent to the judge less than a month after we began mediation sessions, but such a short process is the exception.
This is a very important crossroad in my client's lives and I don't want them to rush and make decisions they may regret later. Depending on which county the legal documents are filed in, how well our sessions progess, and how often we mediate, the entire process will usually take 2-3 months.
Q: How long does it take to reach a typical SEPARATION agreement?
Separation agreements in a GLBT relationship are usually not filed with a court. If the agreement is not filed it could reduce the overall time by 3-6 weeks . If a couple does not have issues with minor children, I normally expect them to reach agreement on all issues in 2-3 sessions. If minor children are involved or there are complex financial issues, 3-4 sessions is more normal. How much time between sessions? That varies and is decided by the couple.
Q: How are parenting issues addressed?
At Mediation One, the future well being and happiness of the couple's children are very important. I help design a workable, fair parenting plan that allows both parents to continue a close, loving relationship with their children.
Q: How much does mediation cost?
I once brought my car to a mechanic and asked him to get rid of an annoying "tapping" in the engine. As he lifted the hood, I asked what he thought it would cost to repair my car. I chuckled at his answer: "Right now, I don't have the foggiest idea of what is wrong. If you'll let me take a closer look, I can give you a pretty good estimate. But if you know what's wrong, tell me and I'll give you the exact cost".
So, if you can visit with me and help me better understand your situation, like the mechanic, I will give you a "pretty good estimate" so you can make an informed decision.
Q: Do you have references?
I would like to offer references; I have helped many couples through this difficult process. But, divorce or separation is a very personal decision, and I cannot divulge our client's personal information.
Q: How can we learn more?
I prefer not to meet in a public setting. A free, introductory visit at the Wayzata or Howard Lake office is private and personal, and in my office we can openly discuss your situation in confidence. Ideally, I would want both parties to visit with me together, but you may schedule an individual visit. Then if you are interested, you can follow up with a couple visit.
The introductory visit is not a sales meeting, it is a information visit. You will not be asked to make a decision during your visit and each spouse will leave with my information packet.
Now serving the Twin Cities metro and outlying communities from two offices:
Main Office: Wayzata, MN
West Office: Howard Lake, MN
If you learn whether Mediation One is best for you, call 952-937-8300 or e-mail kent@peterson.us to schedule your free, introductory visit.
