Mediation offers a less contentious avenue for resolving your divorce. When you and your spouse maintain enough mutual respect to negotiate together, you might find that mediation is more affordable, less stressful and faster than litigating your settlement in court.
There are a few tips for successful mediation.
Keep your emotions out of it
The most common cause of mediation failure is emotional outbursts. When you allow your emotions to govern the process, you may not be willing to negotiate as easily. Approach mediation as a business negotiation and aim for mutual resolutions instead of trying to punish the other party.
Be open to communication
Part of mediation is a give-and-take to come to a mutually agreed settlement. That means being open to communication with the other party. The mediator serves as a neutral third party in the situation and can guide some of the discussion, but you should be able to communicate clearly, rationally and honestly to come to mutual agreements.
Know what matters most to you
Your mediation process will end more successfully if you begin with your end goal in mind. Know what matters the most to you in your settlement and be willing to negotiate any other elements to ensure that outcome. The more flexible you are about other parts of the settlement, the more likely you will get the outcome you hope for.
A mediator can guide you through a settlement agreement in a fraction of the time that courtroom litigation takes. Consider these tips for a successful experience.