Going through a divorce is a challenging time in a person’s life, but ending a marriage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to deal with a contentious process. For some individuals who are divorcing, it’s possible to get the terms set through divorce mediation.
During divorce mediation, both parties sit with a mediator who helps to keep the discussions on track. If the parties absolutely can’t get along well enough to speak to each other, the mediator can act as a go-between. In order to have a successful divorce mediation, it’s critical to prepare properly.
1. Gather documentation
Documentation is often important during divorce mediation. Consider what assets and matters will have to be handled in the mediation session. Bring any documents that apply to those so both parties have complete information to use as they make decisions.
2. Determine must-haves
Negotiations are a major part of mediation, so both parties should know what their must-haves are for the process. This could be keeping specific assets or being able to completely do away with marital debt. Having this ready can help to keep the communication on task.
3. Set the plan for remaining calm
Divorce mediation can sometimes get tense, so anyone who’s going through a divorce should have a plan for remaining calm. If things get too heated, it’s possible to take a step back to calm down and consider the options before coming back to the negotiations.
It may be beneficial to keep the goal of legally ending the marriage in mind. Having the assistance of someone who can ensure you know your options and how to protect your rights may be helpful.