If you’re considering divorce mediation in Minnesota, one of your first questions is likely, “How long will this take?” The good news is that mediation is typically much faster than traditional litigation, and far less stressful. At AMS Mediation, we help Minnesota families resolve divorce-related issues efficiently, respectfully, and on your schedule.
Most Minnesota couples complete the mediation process in 6 to 8 weeks, followed by an additional 1 to 8 weeks for court processing of legal documents. This means your divorce could be finalized in as little as 2 to 3 months, depending on your unique circumstances.
The mediation itself generally involves 3 to 4 sessions, each lasting about two hours. These sessions are typically spaced one to two weeks apart, but the schedule is flexible and can be adjusted to meet your needs.
Why Mediation Is Faster Than Litigation
Traditional divorce litigation in Minnesota can take 6 months to 2 years, largely due to court backlogs and the complexities of coordinating multiple parties’ schedules. Mediation, on the other hand, allows you to set your own pace and schedule sessions at times that are convenient for you and your spouse. This flexibility often leads to a quicker and more amicable resolution.
What to Expect During Divorce Mediation
In mediation, you and your spouse will work collaboratively with a neutral mediator to address key aspects of your divorce, including:
- Division of property, assets, and debts
- Development of a parenting plan and custody arrangements
- Determination of child support and spousal maintenance
The mediator facilitates discussions to help you reach mutually agreeable solutions, but the final decisions rest with you and your spouse.
Factors That Can Influence The Divorce Timeline
- While many divorces can be resolved through mediation within a few months, several factors can affect the duration:
- Complexity of Issues: Cases involving significant assets, business interests, or complicated custody arrangements may require additional time.
- Level of Agreement: If both parties are open to compromise and communication is effective, the process tends to move more quickly.
- Preparation: Having all necessary financial documents and information ready can expedite discussions.
- Emotional Readiness: Differences in emotional preparedness can impact the pace of negotiations.
Finalizing the Divorce
After reaching an agreement in mediation, the final step is to submit the necessary legal documents to the court. Processing times vary by county but typically range from 1 to 8 weeks. Once the court approves your agreement, your divorce is legally finalized.
Why Choose AMS Mediation
At AMS Mediation, we specialize in helping Minnesota families navigate the divorce process with dignity and efficiency. Our services are tailored to your unique situation, and we offer both in-person and virtual sessions to accommodate your schedule.
If you’re ready to take the next step or have questions about the mediation process, contact us at 952-252-1492 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
