Mediation is the process most people will rely on when ending their marriage with a divorce. Thus, if you are divorcing, chances are that mediation will play a role in the process. Below, we offer some helpful tips for making the most out of the mediation process.
Tip 1: Understand the mediator’s role
A mediator will help you reach agreements during sessions. They facilitate communication between parties, identify compromises, develop creative solutions and diffuse volatile conversations.
Mediators are not lawyers for the parties, meaning they are not there to inform you of your rights or help you assess the fairness of proposed agreements. For this type of guidance, each party will want to consult their individual lawyers.
Tip 2: Get your priorities in order
Because mediation allows you to make decisions about matters like child custody and property division, you need to know what is most important to you. Not every detail will carry the same weight.
For instance, spending certain holidays with your children may be more important than keeping the family car. When you define your priorities, you make negotiating for the things you really want easier. And you can avoid needless arguing over something you do not truly care about if you get swept up in strong emotions.
Tip 3: Focus on fairness, not winning
Mediation can involve give-and-take. If you focus on “winning” everything, chances are your mediation sessions will be frustrating and ineffective, as the other person is not likely to give you everything you want.
When it comes to divorce, your priority should be about getting a fair outcome that sets you on the right path to success after the process is over. Keeping your attention on this goal can help you make difficult decisions.
Tip 4: Respect can go a long way
No matter how amicable or contentious you and your ex may be, being respectful throughout the mediation process can be beneficial. It can make it easier to communicate and reach solutions together.
Showing respect can take many forms, from allowing them to talk about something without interrupting them to refraining from making any inflammatory comments about them on social media.
Mediating a divorce can seem intimidating. However, these tips can help you prepare yourself to pursue a successful outcome.