A divorcing couple will meet together with a mediator in a neutral, confidential setting. With the guidance of the mediator, a couple identifies issues, gathers information and explores potential resolutions. Most couples know the issues that need to be worked out, like parenting and living arrangements. One of the jobs of the mediator is to make sure all aspects of the divorce are discussed and covered in the final agreement, even if they are not the issues of disagreement for a particular couple. Couples must talk about medical insurance, life insurance, pensions and the children's college education.
Documentation is gathered on income, expenses, assets and liabilities.
Another job of the mediator is to make sure both parties understand the decisions they are making. Sometimes, for example, couples are referred to their accountant to make sure they fully understand the tax consequences of their decisions. Mediators even talk about how to tell children about the divorce and how both parents want to handle introducing future significant others to their children. The mediation process is designed to alter communication so that future interactions, particularly those that involve children, can be handled by the couple without the need of the mediator. The amount of time it takes to cover all of the issues of a divorcing couple will vary with the circumstances.