How Long Does Divorce Mediation Take? - Ryan Besinque

From The Law Office of Ryan Besinque - How Long Does Divorce Mediation Take? explores the timeline of divorce mediation in Manhattan and what couples in New York City can realistically expect when resolving their divorce outside of court. This episode discusses how mediation sessions typically last two to three hours and why many couples complete the process in three to five sessions, while more complex cases involving significant assets, custody arrangements, or spousal maintenance may take several months.

Ryan Besinque explains how divorce mediation works under New York Domestic Relations Law, including DRL Section 236 and DRL Section 240(1-b), and outlines the key legal issues couples must resolve before a divorce can be finalized. The discussion covers equitable distribution of marital property, child support calculations, parenting time schedules, and how documents like a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Stipulation of Settlement, and Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) may become part of the final agreement.

The episode also walks through the stages of mediation, including the initial consultation, financial disclosure requirements such as the Statement of Net Worth under the Uniform Rules for Matrimonial Practice, and negotiation sessions where couples address property division, custody, and support. It also explains how mediation compares to litigation in the New York County Supreme Court and why many couples choose mediation to reduce costs, maintain privacy, and avoid the longer timelines associated with contested divorce proceedings.

The final segment explains what happens after a mediation agreement is reached, including filing an uncontested divorce packet with the New York County Clerk’s Office at 60 Centre Street, using the New York State Courts Electronic Filing system (NYSCEF), and obtaining the final Judgment of Divorce. Whether a case involves Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Westchester County, or Nassau County, this episode explains how preparation, financial transparency, and careful planning can help keep the divorce mediation process moving efficiently.

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