Divorce Mediation

Dave Hakanson, MS- Divorce Mediator

 

What Is Divorce Mediation?                                                              
The Deschutes County Mediation Service gives divorcing parents the opportunity to make their own decisions about custody and visitation for their children. Parents work with a qualified, professional mediator who will help them develop a parenting agreement.  The agreement will then be conveyed to the parent’s attorney and the Court.

  

Who May Use This Service?

Anyone who files a legal action in Deschutes County which requires the creation or modification of a Parenting Plan.

 

Am I Required to Use Mediation?

Yes. Parents who cannot agree on a parenting plan must first attempt to resolve their differences through mediation before their dispute can be heard by the court. Mediation options are available.  Parents may choose to use a private practice mediator at their own expense.

 

Does the Mediator Make Recommendations To The Court?

No. All sessions are confidential; the mediator cannot be required to testify in Court about what happens in mediation.

 

Can Property Issues or Child Support Be Discussed?

Yes. If both parents agree to address financial issues, the mediator can help with the discussion of property division, marital debt and child support.  Creating the parenting plan, however, is the first priority.

 

How Does The Mediation Service Operate?

When parents know there will be disagreement about the parenting plan they should:

• Ask their legal counsel
• Attend an orientation session held at 9 a.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month at the Rosie Bareis Community Center 1010 N.W. 14th Street, Bend, Oregon.
• For Family Law forms go to the Oregon Judicial Department.

 

How Much Does It Cost?

Divorce and marriage filing fees for Deschutes County cover the cost of providing three mediation sessions.  There is no charge for the orientation session.

 

 

(If you are concerned about your personal safety in the mediation session, please call 385-1719 prior to attending an orientation session.)

 

For Further Information Contact:

Dave Hakanson
1010 N.W. 14th Street
Bend, OR 97701
541-385-1719

 

 

Email Webmaster

DeschutesCounty Mental Health
2577 N.E. Courtney Drive
Bend, OR 97701
(541) 322-7500