ADR Law Divorce & Mediation Lawyer

A Better Way to Divorce on Long Island, NY

Look to the Alternative

Couples who resolve their divorce through mediation often experience better emotional well-being post-divorce. ADR Law supports you through every step with care and professionalism.

Kim M. Ciesinski, Esq.

Kim M. Ciesinski, Esq., PLLC

Board Certified Divorce Mediator

  • 30+ Years Divorce & Family Law Experience
  • Co-Author: “Stress-Free Divorce Volume 3”
  • Certified Mediator – Ackerman Institute for the Family
  • Adjunct Professor at Hofstra University
  • Special Master – Nassau County Supreme Court

Recognized By

Top Lawyers 2018 Avvo Rating Super Lawyer 2017-2022
years
30 +

of providing alternative
solutions to our clients

2000 +

happy clients and their
families helped

95 %

rate of conflict-free
resolution of all cases

Welcome to

Long Island’s Top Alternative Divorce Resolution Firm

Alternative Divorce Resolution (ADR): fostering an atmosphere of cooperation and privacy for spouses seeking a respectful and non-litigious transition into a separate life. We help couples restructure and transform their families with healthy and positive alternative processes to divorce litigation.

We look forward to our partnership!

Kim M. Ciesinski

Kim M. Ciesinski, Esq., PLLC

Why Choose Divorce Mediation in Long Island?

Alternative divorce resolution offers significant advantages over traditional litigation, helping you protect what matters most: your finances, your time, and your family’s well-being.

💰

Save Money

60-70% less expensive than traditional divorce litigation

Average mediation cost: $4,000-$7,000
vs. traditional litigation: $13,000-$17,000+

⏱️

Save Time

Complete your divorce in weeks or months, not years

Mediation: 2-6 months
vs. traditional litigation: 9-24 months

🕊️

Reduce Stress

Peaceful, respectful process that protects your family

Private & cooperative
vs. public courtroom battles

Schedule Your FREE Consultation

No obligation • Completely confidential • Same-day appointments available

Services

Our Alternative Divorce Resolution Solutions

We offer three process options, allowing divorcing couples to transform their family with dignity and remain in control of their future parental and financial relationships.

Divorce Mediation
Divorce Mediation

Divorce mediation is a private, cost-effective process that fosters open communication and cooperation, allowing spouses to reach a fair and mutually beneficial agreement with the guidance of a neutral facilitator.

Negotiated Settlement
Negotiated Settlement

Negotiated settlement divorce is a private, non-adversarial approach that allows spouses to resolve their disputes cooperatively through legal counsel, avoiding litigation while maintaining control over the timing and outcome of their divorce.

Collaborative Divorce
Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce is a private, team-based approach that helps separating couples restructure their family with dignity, minimizing emotional and financial strain through respectful communication and innovative conflict resolution.

High Praise for ADR Law

Awards & Accolades

Why Choose ADR Law?

Long Island’s trusted alternative divorce resolution firm

30+ Years Exclusive Experience

Focused solely on Divorce & Family Law—not a side practice

Board Certified Mediator

Certified by the Ackerman Institute for the Family

Three Alternative Divorce Options

Mediation, Negotiated Settlement, or Collaborative Divorce

Published Author & Educator

Co-authored “Stress-Free Divorce” & Adjunct Professor at Hofstra

95% Conflict-Free Resolution Rate

Proven track record of peaceful, successful outcomes

Court-Appointed Special Master

Trusted by Nassau County Supreme Court judges

60-70% Cost Savings

Significantly less expensive than traditional litigation

Faster Resolution

Complete your divorce in 2-4 months vs. 9-24 months with litigation

Ongoing Advanced Training

Highly trained in Collaborative Interdisciplinary Practice

Compassionate, Personalized Care

We listen, understand, and guide you through every step

30+

Years Experience

95%

Conflict-Free Resolution

60-70%

Cost Savings

Schedule Your FREE Consultation

No obligation • Completely confidential • Same-day appointments available

Get in Touch

Request a Consult

How Our Process Works

Getting started with ADR Law is simple. We’ll guide you through every step of your alternative divorce resolution journey.

1

FREE Consultation

Schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation where we’ll discuss your situation, answer your questions, and explain your options.

✓ No obligation
✓ Completely confidential
✓ Same-day appointments available

2

Choose Your Path

Select from three alternative divorce options: Mediation, Negotiated Settlement, or Collaborative Divorce. We’ll guide you to the best fit for your family.

✓ Mediation
✓ Negotiated Settlement
✓ Collaborative Divorce

3

Resolve & Move Forward

Work with Kim and our team to reach a fair agreement. Most cases are completed in 3-6 sessions over 2-4 months, allowing you to move forward with your life.

✓ Fair & balanced agreements
✓ Faster than litigation
✓ Cost-effective resolution

Start Your Free Consultation

📞 Call 516.308.2922 or complete our online form

Your Path to a Peaceful Divorce

Three simple steps to transform your family with dignity and respect

1

FREE Consultation

30 Minutes • No Obligation

Schedule a complimentary consultation where we’ll discuss your situation, answer your questions, and explain your options.

✓ Completely confidential
✓ Same-day available
✓ Virtual or in-person

2

Choose Your Path

Three Alternative Options

Select from Mediation, Negotiated Settlement, or Collaborative Divorce. We’ll guide you to the best fit for your family’s unique needs.

✓ Mediation
✓ Negotiated Settlement
✓ Collaborative Divorce

3

Resolve & Move Forward

3-6 Sessions • 2-4 Months

Work with Kim and our team to reach a fair agreement. Most cases are completed in 2-4 months, allowing you to move forward with your life.

✓ Fair agreements
✓ 60-70% cost savings
✓ 4x faster than litigation

Ready to Get Started?

Take the first step toward a peaceful, affordable divorce resolution. Schedule your free consultation today.

Start Your Free Consultation

📞 516.308.2922 • 💬 Complete our online form • 📍 Carle Place, NY

book mockup

Read the Book

Stress-Free Divorce Volume 03: Conversations With Leading Divorce Professionals

Divorce is one of the most stress inducing life events. Ms. Ciesinski has co-authored a book entitled, “Stress-Free Divorce – Volume 3”. In addition to her chapter on collaborative divorce, the book offers the helpful perspectives of attorneys, mental health professionals and financial advisors on reducing the stress attendant to every divorce.

Client Testimonials

Our Reputation Speaks for Itself

Share Your Experience

If ADR Law has guided you through mediation, negotiated settlement, or collaborative divorce, we’d be grateful if you shared your experience on Google. Your testimonial not only helps us, it also helps others on Long Island find respectful, compassionate divorce solutions.

News & Press

Stay informed with the latest news, insights, and updates on alternative dispute resolution and family law. See the ADR Law team in action through Press Releases, Radio, Speaking Engagements and more.

Listen to Kim’s PODCAST for inspiration and information
podcast

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about divorce mediation in Long Island, NY

How much does divorce mediation cost in NY?
Divorce mediation in New York typically costs between $4,000-$7,000 for the entire process, which is 60-70% less expensive than traditional litigation ($13,000-$17,000+). At ADR Law, we offer transparent pricing and will discuss all costs during your free consultation. The exact cost depends on the complexity of your case and the number of sessions required.
What happens at a mediation for divorce?
During divorce mediation, you and your spouse meet with a neutral mediator (like Kim Ciesinski) to discuss and resolve all aspects of your divorce, including asset division, child custody, parenting schedules, spousal support, and child support. The mediator facilitates productive conversations, helps identify common ground, and guides you toward fair agreements. Sessions are private, confidential, and typically last 2-3 hours. Most cases are resolved in 3-6 sessions over 2-4 months.
Is it better to mediate or go to court?

Mediation is better than going to court for most couples because it offers:

  • Cost savings: 60-70% less expensive
  • Speed: 2-4 months vs. 9-24 months in court
  • Privacy: Confidential process vs. public court records
  • Control: You make decisions, not a judge
  • Less stress: Cooperative vs. adversarial
  • Better outcomes: Preserves relationships for co-parenting

Court litigation should be reserved for high-conflict cases where mediation isn’t possible.

What are the disadvantages of divorce mediation?

While mediation works for most couples, it may not be suitable if:

  • There’s a history of domestic violence or abuse
  • One spouse is hiding assets or being dishonest
  • There’s a significant power imbalance between spouses
  • One party refuses to compromise or negotiate in good faith
  • Complex legal issues require court intervention

During your free consultation, Kim will assess whether mediation is right for your situation and recommend alternatives if needed.

Are you officially divorced after mediation?
No, mediation is the process of reaching agreements, but you’re not officially divorced until a judge signs your Judgment of Divorce. After mediation concludes, your mediator will prepare a comprehensive settlement agreement. This agreement is then filed with the court along with other required documents. Once the court reviews and approves everything, the judge will issue your Judgment of Divorce, making the divorce official. The entire process from mediation completion to final judgment typically takes 4-8 weeks.
Who typically pays for mediation?
In most cases, couples split the cost of mediation 50/50, as both parties benefit equally from the process. However, payment arrangements are flexible and can be negotiated based on your financial circumstances. Some couples agree that the higher-earning spouse pays a larger percentage, or one spouse pays upfront and is reimbursed during the asset division. We’ll discuss payment options during your free consultation to find an arrangement that works for both of you.
How often is divorce mediation successful?
Divorce mediation has a very high success rate, with studies showing that 70-80% of couples who enter mediation reach a full settlement agreement. At ADR Law, our success rate is even higher at approximately 95%, thanks to Kim’s 30+ years of experience and specialized training in mediation and collaborative practice. Success depends on both parties’ willingness to communicate openly, compromise, and work toward mutually beneficial solutions.
What is the difference between mediation and collaborative divorce?

Both are peaceful alternatives to litigation, but they differ in structure:

Mediation: One neutral mediator works with both spouses to facilitate agreements. More cost-effective and streamlined.

Collaborative Divorce: Each spouse has their own attorney, plus a team of professionals (financial advisors, divorce coaches) working together. More support but higher cost. Both attorneys sign an agreement not to go to court.

We offer both options and will help you choose the best fit during your consultation.

Do I need a lawyer if I use mediation?
You don’t need separate attorneys during mediation, but it’s recommended that each spouse has an independent attorney review the final settlement agreement before signing. Kim is an experienced divorce attorney and mediator, so she can draft a comprehensive, legally sound agreement. However, since the mediator remains neutral and doesn’t represent either party, having your own attorney review the agreement ensures your rights are protected and you fully understand the terms. This review typically costs $500-$1,500 and is well worth the investment.
What should I bring to my first mediation session?

To make your first session productive, bring:

  • Recent tax returns (last 2 years)
  • Pay stubs and income documentation
  • Bank statements and investment account statements
  • Mortgage statements and property deeds
  • Retirement account statements (401k, IRA, pension)
  • Credit card statements and debt information
  • List of monthly expenses
  • Information about children’s needs and schedules

Don’t worry if you don’t have everything—we’ll provide a complete checklist after your free consultation.

Still have questions? We’re here to help.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation

📞 516.308.2922