The purpose of the process is to provide a reasonable, cost-effective alternative dispute resolution forum for the parties in divorce and family litigation. The participants are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity and to take a positive step toward the resolution of their issues.

The objective of mediation is not a settlement at any cost; rather it is to achieve a fair and reasonable agreement. If an agreement appears to be outside the parameters of fairness, mediators should withdraw from mediation and terminate the process.