Knowing how to get what you want in divorce mediation takes forethought and compromise. But with the right guidance, you can come out the other side with what you think is most important.
How to Get What You Want in Divorce Mediation: 6 Simple Steps
- Know what you want.
- Be prepared to compromise when the time is right.
- Understand where your spouse is coming from.
- Find points of agreement before your first session.
- Come prepared with all relevant financial information.
- Hire an experienced attorney.
Let’s take a look at each of these items one by one.
1. Know What You Want
Before your first session, compile a list of terms you want to achieve during mediation. Do you want to continue living in the family home? What are your priorities? Are there any terms that you are not willing to compromise on?
Your mediator will guide the process and facilitate conversation between the parties, but they will not hold your hand. You need to come to each session with a plan.
2. Be Prepared to Compromise When the Time Is Right
Once you know what you want to achieve during mediation, think about which items you would be willing to compromise on to check off the most important things on your list. Mediation is not the place to be combative, so you need to be willing to make deals in order for the process to work.
Entering negotiations with an open mind can help you in the long run.
3. Understand Where Your Spouse Is Coming From
Divorce, even an amicable divorce, can be an emotionally trying experience. While you may not be mourning your relationship, your spouse might be. It’s important to understand where they are coming from because you need to stay level-headed during your negotiations. Don’t let a snide comment or an emotional outburst get to you or throw you off your goals.
4. Find Points of Agreement Before Your First Session
Mediation can be a long, drawn-out process. If you and your spouse can agree on even a few things before your first session, you can cut the time it takes to complete. In general, the longer it takes, the more expensive it’s going to be.
5. Come Prepared with All Relevant Financial Information
Want to know how to get what you want in divorce mediation? Come to each session knowing the value of all your assets and debts. At the very least, know where to find this information so that you can be sure you are getting a fair shot.
6. Hire an Experienced Attorney
While your divorce mediator is there to help you and your spouse come to an agreement, they are not there to represent you or your spouse. They are trying to get you to agree to what is fair, but they don’t have your best interests in mind.
If you are wondering how to get what you want in divorce mediation, hiring an experienced divorce attorney is an essential first step.
Ready to get started? Contact the Law Offices of Granda & Associates, P.A., to schedule a consultation.