What is divorce mediation in Connecticut?

Mediation is a process in which both spouses work with a single neutral professional to reach an agreement on property, support, and parenting. The mediator does not represent either party and does not decide anything. The agreement that results is then reviewed and submitted to the court.

When is mediation a poor fit?

Mediation is generally not appropriate where there is a history of abuse or coercive control, where one spouse controls all financial information and is unwilling to disclose it, or where there is a significant imbalance in bargaining power that the process cannot correct.

Is mediation cheaper than litigation?

Usually, yes, because the parties share one professional rather than funding two adversarial tracks. The savings disappear if mediation fails late and the case has to restart in litigation, which is why fit matters more than cost at the outset.

Divorce Mediation: When It Fits

By Attorney Tara J. Galbo

May 22, 2026 · 1 min read

What mediation is

Mediation is a voluntary process in which a neutral third party assists both spouses in reaching agreement on the issues in their divorce. It is not therapy, and it is not a substitute for independent legal advice.

Keep reading

When mediation works

Mediation works well where both parties communicate in good faith, financial disclosures are complete and honest, and there is no meaningful disparity in bargaining power. In those cases, it is faster and less expensive than litigation.

Neutral meeting room used for divorce mediation sessions — Mediation works when both parties can see the same set of facts.

When mediation is not appropriate

Mediation is not appropriate where there is a history of domestic violence, coercive control, hidden assets, or significant disagreement about parenting fitness. In those matters, the protections of the litigation process are necessary.

How the neutral role works

When mediation is accepted, the role is strictly neutral, no advice is given to either party individually, and each spouse is encouraged to have independent counsel review any proposed agreement before signing.

Common questions

What is divorce mediation in Connecticut?: Mediation is a process in which both spouses work with a single neutral professional to reach an agreement on property, support, and parenting. The mediator does not represent either party and does not decide anything. The agreement that results is then reviewed and submitted to the court.
When is mediation a poor fit?: Mediation is generally not appropriate where there is a history of abuse or coercive control, where one spouse controls all financial information and is unwilling to disclose it, or where there is a significant imbalance in bargaining power that the process cannot correct.
Is mediation cheaper than litigation?: Usually, yes, because the parties share one professional rather than funding two adversarial tracks. The savings disappear if mediation fails late and the case has to restart in litigation, which is why fit matters more than cost at the outset.

Mediation in Divorce Cases: When It Fits and When It Doesn't