Yes, both spouses need to be present for the initial consultation and mediation meetings. We understand the importance of spouses receiving the same information, at the same time, from their mediator. It reinforces trust in the mediation process and creates openness and transparency that greatly benefits spouses during and after divorce. Joint meetings also support mediator neutrality, and result in maximized productivity and better quality agreements, even when significant conflict exists between spouses. However, if helpful or necessary, we can have a “breakout” meeting. A “breakout” occurs when the mediator meets with each of you separately in different rooms. Although most spouses remain in joint meetings for their entire mediation process, it is not uncommon that, when helpful, the mediator will speak with each spouse individually for 10 – 20 minutes and then reconvene back together to continue jointly again. Additionally, where specific circumstances or concerns call for the need to meet separately, we do so on a case-by-case basis.