Parties contemplating divorce can choose to use mediation as a more economical and cost-effective alternative to litigation.  The parties convey their respective positions to a mediator who assists them in reaching their own Agreement.  If an agreement is reached, the mediator will prepare a "Memorandum of Understanding" memorializing the Agreement.  This "Memorandum of Understanding"  is reviewed by an attorney and the divorce can then be put through.  The parties generally share the cost of the fee for mediation.