Mediation Services in New Jersey

Work Through Divorce and Family Disputes with a Neutral Mediator on Your Side

When families in New Jersey face legal disputes, mediation offers a constructive path forward. Instead of letting a judge decide your future, mediation allows both parties to retain control while working toward practical, lasting solutions. At Williams Law Group, LLC, we offer professional, third-party mediation services in addition to traditional legal representation. Whether you're going through a divorce or navigating a custody dispute, our team helps families resolve conflict through thoughtful dialogue, not court battles.

Mediation may not be the right fit for every case. But when it works, it often leads to more efficient, cost-effective outcomes that reduce stress for everyone involved, especially children. As trained and certified mediators, attorneys Sara Kucsan and LaDonna M. Cousins provide neutral, impartial guidance to help parties reach agreements that are fair, informed, and legally sound.

What Is Mediation in Family Law?

Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) where a neutral third party, called the mediator, facilitates communication between parties to help them reach an agreement on legal issues. The mediator does not make decisions or represent either side. Instead, the mediator guides the conversation, keeps the process focused, and helps both parties explore possible solutions.

In family law, mediation can be used to resolve matters such as:

• Divorce and separation
• Child custody and parenting time
• Division of assets and debts
• Spousal support and child support
• Post-divorce modifications and disputes

The goal of mediation is to reach mutually acceptable agreements without the delays, expenses, and emotional strain of litigation. When successful, mediation can lead to faster resolutions and agreements that both parties are more likely to follow.

Meet LaDonna M. Cousins: Neutral Family Law Mediator

Beyond her work as a respected family law attorney, LaDonna Cousins is a certified and experienced mediator dedicated to helping families find common ground during divorce and custody disputes. As a neutral third party, LaDonna guides both sides through emotionally difficult conversations with empathy, structure, and a focus on resolution, not conflict.

LaDonna brings a deep understanding of New Jersey’s family court system and a calm, balanced approach to every mediation. In her role as mediator, she does not advocate for either side or provide legal advice. Instead, she helps both parties explore their options, communicate more effectively, and work toward agreements that serve the best interests of everyone involved.

Meet Sara Kucsan: Neutral Family Law Mediator

In addition to her role as a family law attorney, Sara Kucsan is a trained and certified mediator. She serves as a neutral third party, helping divorcing couples and families work through legal and emotional challenges without taking sides. With deep knowledge of New Jersey’s family laws and a commitment to fairness, Sara provides a structured environment where productive conversations can happen, even in emotionally charged situations.

Sara’s mediation services are distinct from her role as a legal advocate. As a mediator, she does not offer legal advice or represent either party. Her sole purpose is to help both parties understand their options and work toward an agreement that meets their needs.

How the Mediation Process Works

Mediation begins with both parties agreeing to participate. The process typically follows these steps:

1. Initial Consultation – The mediator meets with both parties to explain the process, answer questions, and set expectations.

2. Issue Identification – The parties list the legal and practical issues that need to be resolved, such as custody schedules, asset division, or support payments.

3. Information Gathering – Each party shares relevant documents and information to support an informed discussion.

4. Mediation Sessions – The mediator meets with both parties, together or separately, to explore potential solutions, clarify misunderstandings, and negotiate terms.

5. Draft Agreement – If an agreement is reached, the mediator drafts a memorandum of understanding that outlines the terms. Each party can then review it with their own attorney.

6. Legal Finalization – Once both sides sign off on the agreement, it can be submitted to the court as part of a formal settlement or consent order.

Mediation can occur before, during, or after a court case has started. Some families use mediation before filing for divorce, while others use it to resolve issues after litigation has begun.

Is Mediation Legally Binding?

The mediation process itself is not binding. However, if the parties reach an agreement and choose to formalize it through written documentation (e.g., settlement agreement or consent order), it becomes legally enforceable once signed and approved by the court.

Why Choose Mediation Over Litigation?

Mediation offers several advantages over traditional court proceedings:

• Greater Control – The parties decide the outcome, not a judge.
• Privacy – Mediation is confidential, unlike public court records.
• Efficiency – Many disputes are resolved in weeks, not months or years.
• Cost Savings – Mediation can be significantly less expensive than litigation.
• Reduced Conflict – The process encourages cooperation and reduces adversarial tensions.
• Better for Children – Parents who mediate often create more flexible, child-focused parenting plans.

When Mediation Might Not Be Appropriate

While mediation works well in many situations, it may not be ideal if:

• There is a history of domestic violence or abuse
• One party refuses to participate in good faith
• There is a significant power imbalance or fear of intimidation
• One or both parties are hiding assets or information

In these cases, traditional legal representation and court intervention may be the safer route.

Mediation vs. Mediation Attorney Representation

A mediator is a neutral third party who does not represent either side.

A mediation attorney, by contrast, represents one party during the mediation process. The attorney’s role is to provide legal advice, prepare documents, and advocate for the client’s best interests while still aiming for a cooperative resolution.

At Williams Law Group, LLC, we offer both services, but never for the same matter. If one of our attorneys is serving as a neutral mediator, they cannot also represent either party. Similarly, if we are representing you during mediation, we will not act as the mediator. This clear boundary protects your interests and avoids any conflict. We’ll help you understand your rights and choose the right approach for your situation.

What to Know Before Starting Mediation

Preparing for mediation can significantly impact your success. Here’s how to get started:

• Consult a family law attorney to understand your legal rights
• Define your goals and what outcomes matter most to you
• Gather documentation (financial records, custody calendars, etc.)
• Know your dealbreakers and areas where you’re open to compromise
• Consider your communication style, can you engage productively with the other party?

Mediation works best when both parties are willing to be honest, open, and solution-oriented.

Cost of Mediation in New Jersey

The cost of mediation varies depending on the mediator’s experience, the complexity of your case, and how many sessions are required. Compared to the cost of a full divorce trial, mediation can represent significant savings.

Some court-ordered mediations may offer the first session free or at a reduced rate. Private mediators, like Sara Kucsan and LaDonna Cousins, are hired directly by the parties and set their own fees.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediation

Who pays for mediation?

In most cases, both parties split the cost of hiring the mediator, unless they agree to a different arrangement.

Is a mediator the same as a lawyer?

No. Mediators do not give legal advice or represent either party. You can hire a lawyer to advise you during mediation if you choose.

Can we still go to court if mediation doesn’t work?

Yes. If mediation does not lead to a full agreement, unresolved issues can still be addressed through litigation.

Do I have to be in the same room as my ex during mediation?

Not necessarily. Many mediations are conducted with the parties in separate rooms or via virtual sessions.

Is mediation required in New Jersey?

In many divorce cases, the court will order mandatory mediation for economic issues or parenting time disputes before allowing the case to go to trial.

Speak With a Mediator in New Jersey

Whether you’re ready to start mediation or still weighing your options, Williams Law Group, LLC, can help. Attorneys Sara Kucsan and LaDonna Cousins offer professional, impartial mediation services for families across Northern New Jersey. With offices in Short Hills and Parsippany, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity, stability, and confidence.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about whether mediation is the right path for you.

“Williams Law Group was attentive, competent, and always responded to my emails very quickly.” – Rebecca D., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐