Setting Yourself Up for Success in Mediation

Mediation is frequently relied upon as a method for avoiding litigation in divorce. But while mediation does have a very good potential to help you work through your issues and avoid court, it doesn’t just happen magically. There are some steps you can take to set yourself up for some success in the process to maximize your chances of a positive resolution.

Here’s a quick overview of some of those steps.

• Do your homework: The more information you can gather about your assets and those of your spouse, and the more you think through your own priorities and goals, the better prepared you’ll be for your mediation sessions. Taking the time to inform yourself will help you speak with greater conviction on the various issues related to your divorce and make you a stronger negotiator.
• Work with a lawyer: Retain an attorney to assist you in your mediation. Even if their services aren’t technically necessary to complete the mediation process, they can provide you with numerous benefits, including advocating for you and helping you prepare legal documents.
• Manage your expectations: It’s important to remember that even in a very successful mediation, you’re not going to get everything you want in your divorce settlement. You need to have realistic expectations and realize that mediation involves some give and take. You’re going to have to compromise in some areas. Come to the negotiating table with a clear sense of where you’re willing to compromise, and which issues are of the highest priority for you.

For more tips to help you successfully navigate the mediation process, contact an experienced Long Island divorce lawyer at Solutions Divorce Mediation.