Divorce mediation is a less contentious and cost-effective way of reaching agreements and solving problems. It allows the parties, with the help of a mediator, to work together and hopefully reach a mutually agreeable solution.
What to do and what not to do
However, for mediation to be effective, it is essential that the parties:
- Arrive at mediation prepared with all necessary documents
- Know what they want to achieve in mediation
- Keep their emotions and feelings under control
- Focus on practical solutions instead of fighting
- Disclose as much information as possible
- Do not refuse to reach a compromise
- Do not use your children as pawns to “win.”
- Remember that mediation is not about winning
- Remember that court-mandated mediation is mandatory
- While you do not have to reach an agreement in mandatory mediation, you must at least attend and attempt to solve the issues.
Divorce mediation is an effective way of reaching a resolution in divorces. However, many people show up unprepared for mediation and do not take it seriously. This can hurt them because mediation allows them to negotiate and hopefully settle after reaching an amicable resolution.
If you have questions about mediation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in general, do not hesitate to speak with your attorney and ask them questions before you attend mediation so you can be prepared and ready to have this critical conversation. It very well could be the most important conversation you will ever have.