Divorce Mediation

What is divorce mediation?

Mediation in divorce means that you and your partner jointly reach agreements on all matters involved in a separation. This includes the home, alimony, childcare, pensions, and the division of assets. Instead of a judge making the decision, you determine the content of the agreements together – under the guidance of a neutral mediator.

At Simmelink Lawyers, the mediator is also a lawyer. This means that agreements are immediately tested against the law and recorded in a legally sustainable divorce settlement agreement and, if applicable, a parenting plan.

Key features of mediation:

• Focused on sustainable solutions and clear communication
• Voluntary participation of both partners
• Neutral and independent guidance
• Legally correct recording of agreements

Why choose mediation instead of litigation?

Mediation is often faster, less expensive, and less burdensome than legal proceedings. Furthermore, you maintain influence over the outcome yourself, rather than a judge deciding.

Advantages of mediation in divorce:

• Less time and lower costs than litigation
• Tailored agreements, suited to your situation
• Greater likelihood of adherence to agreements
• Maintenance of a workable relationship, which is especially important when children are involved
• More peace of mind and clarity during the divorce process

Even when relations are strained, mediation may still be possible. In such cases, we provide clear frameworks and structure so that discussions remain manageable.

For which situations is mediation suitable?

Mediation is suitable for many divorces, including:

• Divorce with children (parenting plan, division of care, and alimony)
• Divorce involving a shared home or business
• Determining or adjusting spousal and child support
• Division of assets and pensions
• Divorce where parties wish to continue communicating respectfully

Even when relations are strained, mediation may still be possible. In such cases, we provide clear frameworks and structure so that discussions remain manageable.

Mediation in international divorce

International separation often involves additional legal questions. For example, when one of the partners lives abroad, has a different nationality, or when there are international assets.

Our lawyer-mediators have expertise in international family law and guide mediation in international divorces with attention to:

• the competent court;
• the applicable law;
• recognition of agreements and rulings in other countries.

In this way, we ensure that agreements hold up not only in the Netherlands but also internationally. If desired, mediation sessions can take place entirely online via video calling.

Mediation Process Steps

Our approach to mediation is clear and well-structured:

Step 1 – Intake
During a joint intake, we discuss the situation, wishes, and points of attention. All relevant topics are inventoried.

Step 2 – Analysis and preparation
We map out the legal and financial situation and outline possible scenarios.

Step 3 – Mediation sessions
In one or more sessions, agreements are made regarding children, alimony, assets, and pensions, among other things.

Step 4 – Finalization
The agreements are recorded in a divorce settlement agreement and – if applicable – a parenting plan. Subsequently, the divorce is legally finalized.

Step 5 – Aftercare
If necessary, we provide guidance on the implementation or subsequent adjustment of agreements.

Examples from our Practice

Divorce with children
A couple with two young children chose mediation to jointly draft a parenting plan. This allowed clear agreements to be made without the intervention of a judge.

Entrepreneur in divorce
In a divorce involving a family business, mediation helped in reaching agreements regarding the valuation and continuity of the company.

International separation
A Dutch-German couple reached agreements through mediation regarding pensions and assets in both countries, with attention to the applicable law.