Divorce mediation is often used by couples who seek privacy and want to resolve the issues in their marriage such as custody, support, property distribution. In some cases mediation is sought because the parties do not want to use lawyers for fear the lawyers may make the case more difficult or expensive than it need be. Mediation works for couples who have gotten along during the marriage, and are in agreement about becoming divorced. In addition, it works best for couples who are each fully aware of the income, assets and expenses of the other.
In instances where domestic violence has occurred, mediation is complicated and generally not advised unless carefully coordinated often with lawyers for the parties participating in the mediation. In cases involving extreme domestic violence, mediation is inappropriate.