The divorce mediation process can be tailored to the unique needs of a couple, but there are things that you can do ahead of time to prepare for the process. AMS Mediation specializes in divorce mediation for couples in Minnesota. Here are 5 tips for how to prepare for divorce mediation so that you can put yourself in the best position for success.
1. Define your goals: Before you go into your first mediation session, spend some time thinking about your goals. You already know that you want to divorce, but what are your priorities for dividing your property and for how to structure your time with your children. It is helpful to enter the process with 3-5 priorities and communicate these clearly to your mediator. This can help shape the early discussions.
2. Be willing to be open and compromise: Your marriage may have been defined by conflict, but the mediation process focuses on cooperation and compromise. When you decide to pursue mediation to settle the terms of your divorce, you should do your best to bring an openness and a willingness to compromise during the process. If you and your ex can do this, the divorce mediation process will go smoother and solutions will be found that work best for your entire family.
3. Put your children first: If you share children with your ex-spouse, keep your children at the forefront of your mind throughout the divorce mediation process. You will want to do all you can to protect your kids, construct a parenting plan that they are comfortable with and help them navigate this change in a healthy way. Also, make sure that you do not talk negatively about your ex to your children.
4. Do your homework: Divorce mediation takes much less time than litigation and can be completed in a matter of weeks, rather than many months. You can help move the process along by doing your homework ahead of time. Bring all relevant financial documents including pay stubs, tax information, and information on life insurance policies, retirement, stocks and annuities. In addition, you can make a list of your assets and possessions for discussion.
5. Trust your mediator: Before hiring a mediator, you should make sure that you have done research on your mediator, checked references and spoken to him/her to be sure that you have a rapport. Once you have decided on a mediator, you should feel a level of trust that allows you to be open and honest during the process. This is an important factor for the success of the process.
Minnesota Divorce Mediator
For more information about the comprehensive divorce mediation services offered by AMS Mediation, call us at 952.252.1492.
