"This book guides the reader through the steps of negotiating a divorce settlement by using mediation or collaborative law. It discusses how to: choose the right negotiation method; maximize opportunities for settlement; get an agreement in writing; find mediators, attorneys, and advisers; and protect one's children. It also provides state court websites, contact information for mediation organizations, and examples of what one can expect in mediation or collaborative divorce"--Publisher's website.

Includes index.

The role of mediation and collaborative law in the divorce process -- What happens in mediation -- What happens in a collaborative divorce -- Deciding to mediate or collaborate -- Proposing mediation or collaboration to your spouse -- Finding a mediator -- Finding a collaborative attorney -- Using advisers and doing legal research -- Getting started on information gathering -- Preparing for and making the most of the first session -- Evaluating your progress in mediation or collaborative divorce -- Communicating in mediation or collaborative divorce -- Negotiating in mediation or collaborative divorce -- Court-sponsored mediation -- Encountering difficulties in mediation and collaboration -- Writing up the divorce agreement -- Divorce for same-sex couples -- Women and men in mediation and collaborative divorce -- Unmarried couples in mediation and collaboration -- Mediation and collaboration after divorce.