Divorce and Family
Mediation Services

At AdvanceADR, we offer comprehensive mediation services to address a wide range of family and divorce-related issues. Our expert team, led by Whitney Winburn Goodstone, is dedicated to guiding you through the mediation process with professionalism and empathy. Below, we outline our key services and explain the mediation avenues available to you.

Our Key Mediation Services

Our divorce mediation services are designed to help couples resolve their differences whereby they can control the outcome and not leave it up to a judge. Whether you're seeking divorce mediation in Athens, GA (Watkinsville, Jefferson, Gainesville, Dahlonega, Cumming, and Atlanta, GA) or divorce mediation in Savannah, GA - we provide a structured approach to reach fair and sustainable agreements. We support couples through the process of separation by, addressing key issues like asset division and child custody. We strive to make the separation process as smooth and collaborative as possible.

Our separation mediation services support couples through the process of separating, addressing key issues like asset division and child custody. We strive to make the separation process as smooth and collaborative as possible.

Even after divorce, disputes can arise. Our post-divorce mediation services assist in modifying existing agreements and addressing new issues, helping you manage changes with minimal conflict.

Our prenuptial mediation services facilitate discussions before marriage, helping couples establish clear terms regarding asset division and financial responsibilities, ensuring both parties are on the same page.

We offer LGBTQ mediation services tailored to the unique needs of LGBTQ couples and families, addressing issues like divorce, custody, and property division with respect and understanding.

Mediation Avenues

Court-Annexed vs. Private Mediation

Court-Annexed Mediation

Court-annexed mediation is often required or recommended by the court system as a preliminary step before litigation. This form of mediation is typically conducted within the court system’s framework and can be an effective way to resolve disputes before they escalate to a full court trial. It is generally less flexible in terms of scheduling and mediator selection but provides a structured environment overseen by the court.

mediation services

Private Mediation

Private mediation offers more flexibility and privacy, allowing you to choose your mediator and set your own schedule. This option is ideal for those who prefer a more personalized approach and wish to resolve their disputes outside the formal court setting. With private mediation, you benefit from a tailored process that can address your specific needs and concerns.

mediation services

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to go to mediation before divorce?

Mediation is often recommended or required before a divorce case can move forward to trial. It provides an opportunity to resolve disputes amicably and can streamline the divorce process. Some jurisdictions mandate mediation as a first step before filing for divorce

Before mediation, divorcing parties should fill out a Domestic Relations Financial Affidavit, or DRFA, which is a sworn legal statement that lists your assets, monthly income, and expenses. Think of a DRFA as a budget worksheet. It is one of the first documents couples filing for divorce must complete.

While divorce mediators focus on facilitating discussions and helping you reach agreements, they are not acting as an attorney and, they typically do not assist with filing divorce papers. You may need to work with a legal professional to handle the filing process and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

A good divorce mediator is impartial, experienced, and skilled in communication. They should have a deep understanding of family dynamics and conflict resolution, as well as qualities like empathy, patience, and the ability to facilitate productive discussions.