Divorce Mediation Dos and Don’ts

Divorce can be an uncomfortable process. However, it’s becoming more popular for couples to take control over their divorce process through alternatives like mediation.

To ensure a successful divorce mediation, here are a few dos and don’ts of the process you should be aware of.

• DO be open-minded: If you’re not willing to communicate with your spouse and be open to some negotiation and compromise, it’s unlikely the divorce mediation process will go well.
• DON’T make agreements in advance: It’s strongly encouraged you avoid making agreements in advance, or even in the mediation process until you’ve seen full financial disclosures from your spouse and you have a good enough understanding of the issues.
• DO know your priorities: Figure out what is important to you and why, so you can determine where you are and are not willing to give some ground or compromise.
• DON’T let your emotions get the better of you: Your mediation will go south in a hurry if you become angry or overly emotional, especially in a way that is directed at your spouse. You’re much more likely to be successful if you are able to set emotions aside and approach the process as maturely as possible.
• DO have a basic understanding of your finances: You should have at least a general idea of your overall worth and the value of individual assets so you can negotiate terms of the divorce that are fair.
• DON’T stay silent: If you have a problem with a potential solution or if there is something that is particularly important to you, speak up! You can’t come to an agreement that meets your needs if you stay silent about the issues.

For more information about some of the dos and don’ts of divorce mediation, contact our attorneys at Solutions Divorce Mediation.