A divorce mediator serves as a neutral third party who assists a couple with the negotiation and settlement of their divorce case. The mediator does not represent either person’s interests and cannot provide any legal advice to either person during the mediation process. The mediator is jointly hired by both parties to facilitate the party’s discussions. The mediator schedules and directs the mediation sessions with the parties. The mediator will also make sure that the required legal pleadings are prepared and filed with the court by the parties. Once an agreement in principle is reached by the parties, the mediator assists with the preparation and finalization of the divorce judgment. The mediator is bound to confidentiality and cannot disclose the nature and substance of the discussions that occur during mediation under any circumstances. If mediation does not result in a settlement, a mediator cannot be called to testify in subsequent divorce litigation and cannot be required to turn over documents or information obtained from the parties during the mediation process. If the mediator is also an attorney, neither party can hire the mediator to represent them in subsequent litigation, since that would present a conflict of interest for the mediator.