If you’re adverse to conflict, then divorce is probably going to be an uncomfortable process for you. Litigation can force you to air all of your disputes with your spouse in open court, thereby leaving your personal life in the hands of a judge who doesn’t know you and your family. Fortunately, you may be able to minimize conflict and retain a bigger say in your divorce if you and your spouse are able to work things out through divorce mediation.
Although mediation can save you time, money, and heartache, it isn’t an easy process. On the contrary, you need to be fully prepared if you hope to reach an outcome that suits your needs. The first step in preparing is reflecting on what is important to you. This will help you identify areas where you are willing to give and those where you have to hold strong. In other words, this forethought can help you develop the foundation of your mediation strategy.
There are other things you can do to help ensure a successful mediation. For example, it can be helpful to take some time to consider your spouse’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as your own. If there’s an area you feel weak in, then you can try to build up your knowledge base and confidence in that area prior to mediation. Considering these weaknesses will also help you prepare responses to questions that may be intended to agitate you and cause you to lose focus on what really matters. By doing so, you will be able to keep you emotions in check and focus on your goals.
Many New Jersey residents who enter the divorce mediation process find themselves eager to wrap everything up and move on with their lives. This can be a big mistake. When confronted with a settlement offer, an individual should take time to fully consider it before agreeing to it. Competent divorce attorneys can help with this process so that you can rest assured that you are getting the best possible outcome under the circumstances at hand.