Divorce Mediation NJ and Mental Health Issues

Occasionally I’ll get a call from someone asking if it’s possible to enter into divorce mediation NJ with someone who has what I’ll generically refer to as a “mental health condition.” Realizing this is an extremely broad term which can refer to a number of conditions that vary is severity, it’s important that each party have the ability to make potentially life-affecting decisions with a clear mental state. As I am not a mental health practitioner, I am not in a position to say whether or not one is fit to engage in divorce mediation NJ however my brain tells me if you’re asking me this question, it’s something you’re probably already concerned about and it’s best to consult with a family therapist or other professional to get their advice on the appropriateness of the situation.

In cases like these, you can still mediate but I would insist that the party with the condition have the benefit of counsel and work with an attorney to review any decisions made in mediation to ensure they were not unduly harmed. This will also serve as the added benefit of ensuring an agreement will pass muster with the courts and not be perceived as taking advantage of an individual’s mental health condition.

Should you have any questions about divorce mediation NJ, please give me a call at (908) 864-2177 and I’d be happy to speak with you.

About Joseph Dillon, MBA, APM
Mr. Dillon is one of less than 100 Accredited Professional Mediators in the State of New Jersey having gone through an extensive professional review and credentialing process by the New Jersey Association of Professional Mediators. This prestigious designation puts Mr. Dillon in an elite group of NJ divorce mediation professionals who share an advanced level of expertise and professional experience. He can be reached at (908) 864-2177. +Joseph Dillon | G+