Divorce mediation is a process that allows separating couples to work together to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement on matters such as property division and child custody. It can be an effective alternative to a costly and lengthy court battle.
However, to maximize your success in divorce mediation, there are a few essential questions that should be asked to ensure a fair and balanced settlement.
Let’s explore three questions that will help you get the most out of your mediation sessions and review some tips for communicating with your spouse during divorce.
Put The Children’s Need At the Top of the List
One of the most challenging aspects of divorce mediation is navigating child custody arrangements. It’s essential to put the children’s needs at the top of the list when discussing custody during mediation. You want to ensure that your children are adequately cared for and that both you and your spouse have an equal say in their upbringing.
During divorce mediation, ask your spouse about their plans for the children’s living arrangements, schooling, and other critical factors that will affect your children’s well-being. Discuss the importance of keeping your children’s lives as stable and routine as possible. Be open-minded and flexible when discussing child custody, keeping in mind that your children’s best interests are what’s most important.
Consider how you and your spouse will communicate about parenting decisions and what level of involvement you both will have in your children’s lives after the divorce. Don’t forget to keep the children’s emotional needs in mind, especially when deciding on custody schedules and visitation arrangements. Divorce can be tough on children, so it’s essential to prioritize their needs during the mediation process.
Get The Financial Support You Need In Divorce Mediation
Another crucial aspect to address during divorce mediation is the issue of financial support. Whether you’re the primary breadwinner or a stay-at-home parent, it’s essential to consider the financial support you need to move forward post-divorce.
During a divorce mediation with CDFA attorney mediator Scott Levin, you can ask for financial support in the form of spousal or child support. You’ll need to gather and present evidence that supports your claim, including financial statements and any documentation related to the marital assets.
Keep in mind that your request for financial support must be reasonable and justifiable. Be prepared to negotiate with your spouse and compromise if necessary to ensure that your needs and those of your children are met. Support is generally modifiable over time and so keep in mind that the numbers agreed upon for child support and spousal support during the divorce mediation process can later be changed.
If you’re the spouse requesting financial support, consider your long-term financial goals and ensure that the settlement you agree upon will help you achieve them. Similarly, if you’re the spouse who will be paying financial support, make sure that the amount you agree upon is fair and reasonable based on your financial situation.
The financial support agreement you reach during divorce mediation will have a significant impact on your future financial stability. It’s important to approach this issue with care and seek professional advice if necessary to ensure that you’re making the right choices.
Remember that the goal of divorce mediation is to find a mutually beneficial agreement that works for both parties. By approaching financial support negotiations with an open mind and willingness to compromise, you’ll increase your chances of reaching a settlement that meets everyone’s needs.
Consider Your Marital Property
In our work at San Diego Divorce Mediation, the goal is to reach a fair and equitable division of assets between both parties. Before going into mediation, take some time to assess your marital property and determine what is most important to you.
Make a list of all your shared assets, and consider the emotional and financial value of each. It’s also important to have an understanding of the laws surrounding marital property in your state, as this can impact the division of assets.
Be prepared to negotiate and compromise on certain assets. For example, if you both have an emotional attachment to the family home, it may be necessary to consider selling it and splitting the proceeds.
Divorce mediation is about finding a solution that works for both parties, so be open to considering different options and solutions for your marital property. By approaching mediation with a clear understanding of your assets and a willingness to negotiate, you’ll increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Begin the low-stress process with Scott F. Levin, Esq, at San Diego Divorce Mediation. You’ll have access to flexible options, including virtual meetings. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation and see the difference mediation can make. By choosing mediation, you can save time, money, and emotional distress, while maintaining control over the outcome of your divorce.
