Separate maintenance typically involves support and practical arrangements while parties remain married, including housing, insurance, expense allocation, and related financial arrangements. These matters often focus on maintaining financial and day-to-day stability while the parties remain married, without divorcing.
How Mediation Helps In This Context
Sessions in this setting often allow participants the ability to consider immediate financial stability and set short-term arrangements that keep daily life workable while longer-term questions are evaluated. Participants clarify documentation and define follow-up points so arrangements can be implemented and, if necessary, adjusted without further dispute.
Common Issues
- Support form, amount, and timing
- Housing and expense allocation
- Insurance and medical decision logistics
- Other issues unique to the family’s circumstances
Some Considerations For Counsel Preparing For Mediation
- Identify the budget information needed for near-term planning
- Consider whether a review date for any interim arrangements would be helpful
- Identify who needs to participate and any third-party approvals that may affect implementation
- Consider how adjustments will be requested and documented if circumstances change