Domestic mediation cases include a broad array of family concerns.

The most obvious case type in this category is divorce. CMS is especially attuned to assisting couples who cannot afford an attorney. Divorce mediation generally involves the division of property, debt assignment, spousal support, and custody or parenting time arrangements. Child support is exclusively handled by the Friend of the Court office in the county in which the divorce suit is filed. Couples who agree to mediation can be referred by the court after filing. Another option could be requesting mediation directly from CMS before the divorce action has been filed. This works best if the divorce is non-contentious and the parties are mostly in agreement about their intended outcomes. In this case, the mediator will help the couple resolve any remaining issues and write an agreement which can be provided to the Friend of the Court office when the couple is ready to file. CMS does not mediate divorce cases where domestic violence is an issue and/or a personal protection order is in place for one or both of the parties.

Fee Schedule:
Divorce: $150 (can be divided between the two parties)
No Show/Less than 48 hour cancellation: $100

Fee Waivers:
The following individuals are eligible for full fee waivers for mediation services: 1) those who receive public assistance for housing, food stamps, or Medicaid; 2) those whose only source of income is Veteran’s Benefits or Social Security; 3) those whose income is less than 125% of federal poverty guidelines. Proof of income is required for fee waivers. For all others, the listed fee schedule applies. Payment plans are available for up to three months.

Other Fee Information:
– The CMS Board of Directors reserves the right to change fees at any time.
– Individuals who fall below the minimum income guidelines will have all fees waived. Proof of income is required. For all others, payment in full expected at the time of mediation. Payment plans for up to three months are available, if needed.
– The Executive Director reserves the right to adjust fees under special circumstances. Any such change will be documented in the CMS data base as well as the case file.

Effective March 20, 2018