Includes bibliographical references and index. 1. How mediation differs from litigation -- 2. Is mediation the best choice for you? -- 3. Choosing a mediator -- 4. The role of the mediators -- 5. Conferring with a family law attorney -- 6. Before the first session : talking to your spouse about mediation, discussing possible agreements, making an appointment, what to take with you to mediation -- 7. The first session (and what happens next) : understanding the rules, explaining your goals, tackling the legal issues, initiating the legal issues, initiating the legal paperwork, preparing the final orders, transferring property, finalizing your divorce -- 8. How agreements are reached -- 9. The emotional hurdles -- 10. What doesn't work -- 11. Your children's needs -- 12. Planning your children's future care -- 13. Analyzing your assets and debts -- 14. Dividing it all up -- 15. What about alimony?