Mediation is a great way to make the next step of your divorce process easier. The process of filing an uncontested divorce is usually faster and less costly than a litigated one (in which the partners fight it out in court).
Uncontested divorces are cheaper than going to court and will save you money on attorney fees. Because everything is already done in advance, courts often speed up uncontested divorce cases. This means that the judge can complete your divorce quicker than if it were to go to trial.
Even if there are many issues and difficult feelings to navigate, mediation can be a good option for most divorced couples. Mediation is not something you should reject just because your partner views a certain issue differently. Mediating is powerful and can result in settlements for cases that seemed impossible at first.
You might wish to speak with the assistant or mediator before you start the mediation process. This will allow you to share background information about yourself, your partner, and your issues regarding your divorce. Your mediator may ask you to fill out a questionnaire. A mediator may ask for you to create a “mediation declaration” that outlines your information as well as the issues related to divorce.
You might be asked by the mediator to sign an agreement stating that you will keep the contents of the mediation secret and agree that any information that is discussed in court cannot be disclosed.
In-person mediation session stake place in a comfortable conference room. While some mediators will meet all parties in one room, others may meet with each individual in smaller rooms to facilitate private conversations. If there are attorneys present at mediation for couples, the mediator may ask them to have a private meeting with their client before they begin the session.
The mediator will take care of the housekeeping, such as setting the agenda, and you, along with your partner, will have a brief statement to share about your personal situation. The mediator may ask questions after you have each spoken. To confirm their understanding of what you are trying to communicate, your mediator may repeat or summarize the points.
Next, you will need to determine which issues your partner and yourself agree or disagree on.
It doesn’t necessarily mean that you should agree to your partner’s point of view. It’s possible to have fresh ideas for resolving disagreements after listening to your partner.