5 Tips To Guide You Through Divorce Mediation
Divorce mediation can be a great way to work out issues with the divorce without going through litigation. However, it can be easy to make mistakes if you have never done it before. Here are some tips to follow to help guide you through the process.
Use A Trained Divorce Mediator
Divorce mediation is definitely something that you want to have performed by a trained divorce mediator. There are a lot of skills that a divorce mediator needs to have to successfully run the process, and you can't just pick anybody to be the person that helps negotiate things between you and your spouse. You may be surprised at how smooth the process can go when it's with a trained mediator.
Know The Rules Of Mediation
It's very important that you understand the rules of divorce mediation before you go into it. There are many ways that the mediation process can be done, and knowing the rules is going to ease your anxiety about the whole situation. For example, will you and your spouse be separated in different rooms, or will you be in the same room talking to each other? You'll be less nervous and be able to negotiate with a clear head once you know what to expect.
Be Prepared For Mediation
Being prepared is more than knowing the rules since there is a lot of preparation that needs to be done before you even think about mediation. Your lawyer should be the one to help prepare you for mediation, which involves things like getting all of the accurate financial information and you and your spouse's salaries, bank accounts, retirement accounts, and things of that nature. You'll also want to have a complete list of assets that you are going to negotiate for.
Set Realistic Expectation
Your lawyer will also prepare you for the possible best- and worst-case situations that can come out of mediation and what could happen if you reject mediation and go to trial. This can help you set a goal of what you can potentially get out of mediation to know that you are on the right track.
Know What Matters Most To You
There are likely things that you want to get out of the divorce that you need to prioritize. While some people are concerned about getting the house or more spousal support, you may have your own needs. For example, you may want a larger part of your spouse's pension so that you don't have to work for your entire life and are willing to give up more assets now in order to get that.
Contact a divorce mediation service to learn more.
