It does not mean that the children spend half their time with dad and half with mom. Sole legal custody usually means that one parent makes all of the big decisions, but cannot take the children from Massachusetts permanently without the other parent s consent or permission of the court. Choosing a mediator is critical to the success of the mediation. Some will speak briefly to you by telephone, preferably with each member of the couple. Others prefer to send out information, waiting until the introductory session to address questions.
Mediators generally charge an hourly rate with the couple deciding how to share payment.
Find out whether the mediator charges for a brief introductory meeting. Obviously this is hard for the mediator to estimate, but the mediator should be able to give you a rough idea. Most mediators are either therapists or lawyers. Find out whether the mediator handles only some issues. Mediation is a profession itself, and it is important for your mediator to have had training specifically in mediation techniques.