Divorce mediation requires that you sit down and try to talk things out with your ex so that you can divide your property or share custody without making the courts set all of the terms for your family. Mediation can reduce the conflict in your divorced and possibly even help you keep the cost lower.
However, it can also be a stressful experience, especially if you have not prepared ahead of time. What are some of the ways that you can prepare for a more successful mediation session?
Familiarize yourself with the inventory of assets and debts
Your spouse will likely have submitted an inventory of assets and debts, just like you did after filing your paperwork. You need to have a thorough understanding of what assets you need to divide and their overall value. It’s also important to recognize if your spouse did not disclose certain property or if they attached an inaccurate value to an asset so that you can push for a more appropriate solution.
Learn about the Kentucky approach to divorce
The goal of mediation is to help you resolve matters amicably outside of court, allowing for cheaper, faster and more private divorce proceedings. However, you should not accept an unfair outcome just to avoid litigation.
Knowing a bit about how works and how the courts determine the best interests of your children or divide your marital property helps you have realistic expectations for what the outcome would be in litigation and therefore what compromises are appropriate during mediation.
Make sure your lawyer knows your personal priorities
You likely have your own goals based on your hope for the future and your emotional needs. Whether you want to retain certain property because it has emotional significance or you worry the most about protecting the relationship with your children, ensuring that your lawyer knows your priorities will make it easier for you and them to negotiate for an appropriate resolution to your divorce.