Tips for a Successful Divorce Mediation

Couples seeking a divorce sometimes do not want to go through the process of litigation in a courtroom. It is because of this that mediation has become a common method of divorce. During the process of mediation, spouses come together to negotiate their marital terms in order to reach agreements regarding their settlement. This is done with the assistance of an unbiased third party that exists to mediate any disputes that take place and guide them towards making decisions. Mediation can be a beneficial way to resolve a divorce. The following are useful tips to make the process a success.

Pick the Right Mediator

Every divorce case is different and some mediators may be better at handling certain situations. Some are better at handling emotional situations while others are more adept at handling financial arrangements. It is because of this that it is important to choose a mediator that is qualified in caring for your marital issues.

Be Prepared

During mediation, spouses may be required to provide the mediator with certain documentation before the process begins. This may include property appraisals, pension information, school district boundary information, and more. If the proper tasks are not completed before the mediation begins, the process may not be able to move forward.

Do Your Homework

Before going into the process, it is important to do as much learning as you can about the issues you are going to discuss. This can include but is not limited to the following:

• Your rights and responsibilities
• How child support is calculated in New Jersey
• Basic understanding of your financial documents

Knowing What You Want

Mediation requires negotiating what you want and need out of a divorce. This is why it is crucial to know what you want before the process beings. By preparing these goals ahead of time, you will be more effective during the sessions.

Be Honest

The process of mediation works best when spouses are not only honest with themselves but the mediator as well. If you want a mediator to touch on certain topics or review the agreements, it is important to say so.

Be in Control of Your Emotions

Divorces are stressful situations that draw out a great deal of emotion in a couple. Finalizing agreements in mediation is hard work and can sometimes draw out ugly emotions. During this process, it is best to stay in control of your emotions even if you feel as if you are being pushed. This can be done with deep breaths and counting to five before reacting. If you begin to feel overwhelmed at any time, it is okay to simply take a break and clear your head before resuming. 

Keep an Open Mind

While it is important to know what you want when entering divorce proceedings, it is also good to keep an open mind. There is rarely ever one solution to a problem, and while it may not be the solution you desire, not everything is likely to go your way. Part of mediation is allowing healthy discussions to brainstorm creative ways to settle your marital issues.

Contact our Firm

If you need an experienced legal team to guide you through your divorce, contact Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark L.L.C today.