THE AURIT CENTER 
Utah is famous for its serene landscapes, and your divorce process can also be peaceful. With divorce mediation, Utah spouses can complete their entire divorce process without the stress of family law attorneys or court dates.
In this guide, we'll uncover what divorce mediation is and why it's almost always better than going to court. We'll also give you a roadmap to guide you through the entire divorce mediation process.
We'll cover topics you can discuss with your mediator and clear up some common misconceptions about the process.
What is divorce mediation in Utah?
Divorce mediation in Utah is a confidential process where a neutral mediator helps spouses reach an amicable divorce settlement. It’s a more personalized, private, and affordable way to end a marriage.
A Utah divorce mediator doesn't offer legal advice, take sides, or tell you what to do. They guide an open discussion between spouses about marital assets, child custody arrangements, and other divorce matters.
If spouses can't agree on the terms of their divorce it’s called a contested divorce. When spouses file a contested divorce, Utah state law requires them to attend at least one mediation session.
“Mediation isn’t about winning or losing. It’s a collaborative effort to find win-win solutions.”
Advantages of Utah divorce mediation
First, we need to debunk a common myth. The truth is, divorce mediation isn't just for spouses who get along. There are plenty of advantages to divorce mediation for everyone, especially spouses who have trouble communicating.
Let’s get into some of the reasons why mediation works.
Mediation lets you control the outcome
Utah divorce mediation allows you and your spouse to feel confident about your final agreement. You won't have a judge making all of the decisions. Instead, you can tailor-make an agreement that makes sense for your family.
Mediation is more affordable
No one should have to go into debt to end their marriage.
Going to court can cost thousands of dollars. Mediation saves you from attorney fees and court costs.
Mediation can decrease stress
Mediation dials down some of the stress involved in the divorce process. Even if talking to each other is tough, a skilled Utah divorce mediator can guide the discussions to make sure both spouses feel heard and understood.
Mediation's relaxed setting reduces tension, so coming to an agreement is easier.
Mediation is faster
Waiting for a court date can take a long time. Slow-moving court systems often drag out the litigation process.
“[The Aurit Center's] encouragement and guidance that we were able to come to a mutually acceptable agreement in a relatively short period of time” - O.W.
With mediation, it's possible to reach agreeable solutions in just a few sessions. Why? Because you and your spouse talk directly rather than relaying everything between lawyers.
Mediation is about collaboration and compromise
The mediation process keeps relationships healthy and protects the parents’ and children’s emotional health. It's not just about ending a marriage. It's also about being respectful and kind afterward.
Divorce mediation helps you work together for future happiness, even when it's hard to talk or agree.
The Utah divorce mediation process: what to expect
Divorce mediation is a gateway to a future of mutual understanding. Here’s a road map to the Utah mediation process to guide you on your journey:
1. Initial consultation
In an online consultation, both spouses discuss what they need and want to accomplish during mediation. You can ask questions to make sure the process works for you.
At The Aurit Center, the one-hour initial consultation is always free.
2. Information collection
Your mediator will work with you and your spouse to make sure you have all the necessary financial records and other information you’ll need in mediation. This usually includes details about assets you own, debts you owe, how much you earn, and plans for taking care of your kids.
Being open and honest is important. Your mediator will provide all the guidance you need.
For more on how to prepare for mediation, check out How to Prepare for Divorce Mediation: A Complete Guide.
3. Mediation meetings
Meetings are at the heart of mediation. Your Utah divorce mediator will take the lead during your meetings. They'll help you talk about everything from who gets what to plans for your kids.
At The Aurit Center, your certified divorce mediator meets with both of you at the same time. If needed, they can also speak with you and your spouse individually in breakout sessions.
During discussions, your mediator will make sure you have time to reflect and ask questions. They'll also make sure you understand the legal side of your decisions.
The goal is to give you the support you need to find the best answers for your family.
4. Writing and signing the agreement
Once you and your spouse agree on all divorce matters, your mediator will document the terms in writing. This agreement is legally sound, but spouses are welcome to have a divorce lawyer look at it before signing.
After you've both signed the agreement, it goes to the court to become part of your divorce papers.
Each step on your divorce mediation journey is about working together, talking openly, and being respectful. Mediation helps you and your co-parent start a fresh, new chapter.
Choosing the right Utah divorce mediator
Picking the right divorce mediator is important.
Start with the type of experience the mediator has. Ask them to explain how they help spouses during the typical mediation process. This helps you understand their style and approach.
A good mediator is calm and understanding to both people while staying neutral.
When you talk with mediators, make sure you and your spouse both understand how much the process will cost. Ask questions about fees so there are no surprises later on.
In Utah, if the court orders you to attend mediation, you can choose a court-appointed mediator or mutually agree on a private mediator of your choosing.
Frequently asked questions about Utah's divorce mediation
If you're thinking about divorce mediation in Utah, you're bound to have questions. Here are answers to some common questions:
How much does divorce mediation cost in Utah?
The cost of divorce mediation in Utah depends on whether the mediator bills hourly or uses a flat-fee structure. A flat fee is always preferable.
If a mediator bills by the hour, several factors can affect the cost, including:
- whether the spouses are seeking mediation privately or because of a court mandate;
- the complexity of the situation; and
- the number of mediation sessions needed to reach an agreement.
Aside from being more expensive, when mediators charge an hourly rate, spouses report feeling rushed and oftentimes are surprised by the amount of their monthly invoices. So make sure you understand their pricing structure.
Our Aurit Center Certified Mediators have all-inclusive, flat-fee pricing. We also offer payment plans in 3, 6, and 9-month installments.
How many mediation sessions will I need?
Like costs, the number of mediation sessions needed can vary. It depends on how complicated things are and whether both spouses are willing to compromise.
Are mediators and arbitrators the same?
No, mediators and arbitrators aren't the same. A mediator helps both sides talk and agree–they don’t make the final decision. An arbitrator listens to both spouses and then makes the final decision without discussion, like a judge in a courtroom.
What happens when spouses reach an agreement in mediation?
Once spouses reach an agreement, the mediator will draft a divorce petition to file with the court.
After it’s approved by the court, it becomes your official divorce decree. The divorce isn’t final until the paperwork goes through the court process.
Will my spouse and I have to appear in court if we choose mediation?
No, spouses that opt for mediation don’t have to go to court. The goal of mediation is for spouses to settle their differences outside of court.
At The Aurit Center, 95% of our clients resolve their cases without ever going to court.
Is the mediated agreement binding?
Yes, agreements reached in mediation are binding once they’re approved by a judge.
Judges accept and sign final divorce documents from mediation. Generally, they appreciate when spouses reach agreements in mediation. The goal of the court is to uphold fair and equitable agreements.
Mediation: a peaceful path to divorce in Utah
Divorce mediation offers a path to a smoother divorce. It provides a space where spouses can find the best solutions for their divorce agreements. It allows for respect and dignity in an otherwise adversarial process.
With an Aurit Center Certified Mediator, you’ll find genuine support and compassion at every step.
Schedule your free online consultation today to learn more about our mediation process and find out if divorce mediation is right for you.
