Going through a divorce can be a challenging undertaking, but the outcome is usually worth the effort. For some, divorce is a constant fight that ends in a court battle, but that’s not how most divorces go these days.
Many divorces are resolved through mediation. This is a process that enables both parties to have a say in the outcome. If you’re considering mediation to resolve your divorce, you may find these tips helpful as you work with both your attorney and a neutral third-party mediator.
Prepare before the first session
Preparation is the key to mediation. It’s best if you know exactly what options you have. For example, knowing the list of assets and debts that are part of property division is beneficial so you know what you want to try to walk away with in the process and what you’re willing to give up to achieve your goals.
Keep emotions out of the process
Divorce mediation isn’t a time to let your emotions rule. Instead, you need to consider everything logically so you can make the decisions that are in your best interests. Be sure you think about your financial situation when you’re trying to decide what you need for property division. When it comes to your children, take the time to focus on what’s best for them.
Set clear goals and share them with your team
You should go into each mediation session with clear goals. This doesn’t mean that you should stand firm on everything going your way. Instead, your goals should encompass things that enable you to keep the mediation process moving forward with each session toward your broader aims.
Negotiate and compromise
Negotiations and compromises are the foundations of mediation. The chance that you and your ex will both get exactly what you want is unlikely. You have to decide what’s truly important for you to focus on so you can keep your efforts focused.
Seeking legal guidance and support throughout the process is important. An attorney can help you to achieve a favorable outcome during mediation, which is important as so much is at stake.