I was separated in 2002 and divorced in 2006. with joint custudy…

But that`s not mediation. That`s negotiation.

There are a few issues.

One is that if you want to mediate you have to hire a family lawyer who is a mediator. The mediation process is very different than lawyers going up and back.

If you retain a good mediator who is an experienced family lawyer you may be able to settle this.

The truth is that your marriage was no where near long enough to entitle her to support that would go on indefinitely. She needs a 20 year marriage, at least, to entitle her to this.

As well, a Court will impute income to her if she does not show (prove) that she has made her very best efforts to become self-sustaining, even if she would be entitled to ongoing support.

Your lawyer can likely get an expert to testify (if necessary) that she is employable.

What you might want to speak to your lawyer about is the idea of signing a mediation- arbitration agreement.

This would mean that you waive your right to go to Court. Instead you agree to mediate. And, further, you agree that if you cannot reach a settlement then the mediation is substituted for arbitration which is binding.

It will take much less time and ultimately cost much less than a trial would.

Let me know if you need further clarification.