Compare Divorce Solutions Chart

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	TRADITIONAL REPRESENTATION (Litigation)	MEDIATION
HOW LONG TO COMPLETE	Generally the longest time to complete due to court scheduling, attorney interaction, discovery, and negotiation. Average time is 1 year+	Generally the quickest to complete Average time is a matter of 4-6 weeks
DECISION MAKER	Judge	The parties and outside professional they choose to consult
COST	Generally highest due to (2) fees for attorneys, costs, and experts. Fees increase as trial nears. Ranges about $15k-to $30k+ per person	Generally least expensive due to use of neutrals and free discovery exchange between parties. Ranges about $4,000- $5,000 including document prep- ask about flat fees
FLEXIBILITY AS TO TERMS	Judges are limited to their orders and judgments	Able to be customized-Very flexible within wide parameters
EXPERTS	Generally each party hires their own multiple experts for real estate, pensions, businesses	Parties have option to agree on one financial neutral or expert
IN/OUT COURT	In Court	Out of Court
LASTING AGREEMENT	Unknown	Generally very good
TIMETABLE/AGENDA	Set by court	Set by parties
COMMUNICATION	Indirect – filtered and subject to delays due to court rules	Mostly direct – unless party requests private session