Divorce mediator

Divorcing couples who want a lower-cost, less adversarial route than litigation, and sometimes referrals from lawyers or financial planners.

Hourly rate per session or a flat package for the whole process, usually split between the two spouses.

• Calm, neutral listening
• Handling conflict and emotion
• Clear writing of agreements
• Basic understanding of family and financial issues

• Mediation training or certification requirements, which vary by state and court, so check locally
• Unauthorized practice of law: don't give legal advice, and encourage clients to get their own lawyer to review agreements
• Professional liability insurance, plus general liability if you rent space
• Cases involving abuse or high conflict may not be suitable for mediation, so set screening rules
• Referrals and a good reputation take time to build

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your training, insurance and whether you rent meeting space. Check your state's training or certification requirements before you budget.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on your caseload and fees. Referrals and a good reputation take time to build, so early months may be slower.

Mediation training or certification requirements vary by state and court, so check locally. Also check unauthorized practice of law rules, professional liability insurance, and set screening rules, since abuse or high-conflict cases may not suit mediation.