23 East Main Street, West Yarmouth, MA 02673

(508) 221-6677

chantal@capecoddivorcemediation.com

8 out of 10 couples are able to mediate their divorce when both are willing to try and desire to put the family's wellbeing first.

If you had difficulty communicating in your marriage, it doesn’t necessarily rule out mediation. The key is that you and your spouse must be able to work well with the mediator.

Every couple's situation is different so it is important to discuss your marriage with the mediator during the initial consultation. The mediator will let you know whether the mediation will be beneficial in your case.

The following comparisons should be used as a general guide. Some couples who have traits from both categories may still be able to mediate with appropriate safeguards in place.

Mediation will work when:

You both recognize your marriage is over and want to divorce in an amicable manner.

Good communication exists.

You are both willing to mediate.

You can maintain a status quo during the divorce process.

There is no restraining order in place and/or there is no history of domestic violence between the parties.

You agree to put aside your differences to work together.

You both want an amicable and fair arrangement.

Both parents want to preserve the family relationship and minimize conflict for your children.

You want to save money.

You both recognize that a contested litigation is not in your best interest.

Mediation is problematic when:

A history of domestic violence between the parties exists and/or there is a restraining order is in place.


One spouse is known to be dominating over the other.


You cannot agree to work together.


One spouse wants to mediate and the other adamantly refuses.


One of you blames the other for the divorce and is unable to separate his/her feelings from working out a settlement. 


One or both of you are angry and bitter against the other, affecting your or his/her ability to cooperate.


A history of psychological, verbal or physical abuse exists.


You or your spouse has a substance use issue and cannot be sober or clean enough to participate in mediation sessions.


One party is easily manipulated by the other.

Free Mediation Consultations

Please contact our office at (508) 221-6677 to schedule a free ½ hour consultation with the mediator to answer your questions and find out if mediation is appropriate in your case.


*Consultations for family law (limited or full representation) are subject to our standard hourly rate